Date: Wednesday, May 11, 2022
Chair: Gergo
Title: Computations underlying "arithmetic" over non-symbolic representations of quantity
Abstract: Infants
and young children can solve "arithmetic-like problems" using non-symbolic representations of quantity (e.g. solving "one object" + "one object"), and these early non-symbolic abilities are thought to support the acquisition of formal mathematics in school.
How do untutored children perform non-symbolic "arithmetic-like" computations? Formal symbolic arithmetic
is defined by function rules that specify how operators operate over inputs to produce
outputs, and these function rules allow for the principled combination and manipulation of numerals. In this talk, I will present recent research from my lab that suggests that human's early, non-symbolic "arithmetic" abilities are much more computationally
limited. Our results provide new insights into the computations underlying early numeracy abilities, and suggest computational limitations on early non-symbolic numerical competencies that could limit their effectiveness as scaffolding for the acquisition
of formal arithmetic knowledge.