The Effect of Computer-oriented Working Memory learning on Improving Problem Solving Skills of Students with Problem Solving Difficulties in Mathematics

The purpose of this research is to determine the effects of cognitive training using software programs on improving the performance of students' skills in solving the mathematical problems. The method of this research was semi-experimental with using pre-test post-tests and control group. For this purpose, first by random multi-stage cluster, 180 male students of fourth-grade were selected, then, 30 students who had problems in learning mathematic were chosen of them by targeted sampling method. Afterward they were distributed randomly in two groups of experimental (n=15) and control (n=15). The instruments that were used for data collecting of research consisted of "Iran Key Math Diagnostic Tests" and "The Researcher-made mathematic tests". In experimental group, testable teachings were administered through working memories software trainings, for 20 sessions of 60 minutes, all solitary. Computer intervention programs included ‘working memory’& ‘improving the performance of mind’. In control group, testable teachings were administered by their teachers. The statistical analysis was carried out by the method of covariance analysis (ANCOVA), which showed a significant difference between scores of math improvements between these two groups. Therefore, the computer-oriented instructions of working memory can be used as an interactive method to improve the performance of math problem solving skills and academic performance in mathematical areas within the students who have difficulties in learning mathematic. Keywords: Math Learning Difficulties, Computer-Oriented working memory learning, Math Problem Solving Skills.