Virtual manipulatives for mathematics

Virtual manipulatives for mathematics are digital representations of physical mathematics manipulatives used in classrooms.^[1] The goal of this technology is to allow learners to investigate, explore and derive mathematical concepts using concrete models.^[2][3]

Base Ten blocks for math

Common manipulatives include base ten blocks, coins, 3D blocks, tangrams, rulers, fraction bars, algebra tiles, geoboards, geometric planes, and solid figures.

Use in special education

Virtual math manipulatives are sometimes included in the general academic curriculum as assistive technology for students with physical or mental disabilities.^[4] Students with disabilities are often able to still participate in activities using virtual manipulatives even if they are unable to engage in physical activity. ^[5][6]

Further reading

• Moyer, P. S., Bolyard, J. J., & Spikell, M. A. (2000). What are virtual manipulatives? [Online]. Teaching Children Mathematics, 8(6), 372-377. Available: - My NCTM
• Moyer, P. S., Niezgoda, D., & Stanley, J. (2005). Young children's use of virtual manipulatives and other forms of mathematical representations. In W. J. Masalaski & P. C. Elliot (Eds.), Technology-Supported Mathematics Learning Environments (pp. 17–34). Reston, VA: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
• Ortiz, Enrique (2017).Pre-service teachers’ ability to identify and implement cognitive levels in mathematics learning. Issues in the Undergraduate Mathematics Preparation of School Teachers (IUMPST): The Journal (Technology), 3, pp. 1–14. Retrieved from Issues in the Undergraduate Mathematics Preparation of School Teachers: The Journal -- Volume 1. pdf:
• Ortiz, Enrique, Eisenreich, Heidi & Tapp, Laura (2019). Physical and virtual manipulative framework conceptions of undergraduate pre-service teachers. International Journal for Mathematics Teaching and Learning, 20(1), 62-84. Retrieved from Physical and Virtual Manipulative Framework Conceptions of Undergraduate Pre-service Teachers.

External links

• Pre-service teachers’ ability to identify and implement cognitive levels in mathematics learning. or Issues in the Undergraduate Mathematics Preparation of School Teachers: The Journal -- Volume 1
• Physical and virtual manipulative framework conceptions of undergraduate pre-service teachers.