Educational Math Game Software: A Supporting Tool for First Grade Students' Achievement

Learning at a young age is a critical factor in the development of the mind. In this paper, we aim to clarify the effects of using computer-based mathematical games to improve students’ performance in mathematics. We investigate the difference between using traditional teaching methods and traditional teaching methods supported educational mathematical game software (EMGS).This study was conducted at an elementary school in Jordan. We used a quasi-experimental control group design. A mathematics test was conducted before and after the implementation of the EMGS to evaluate the software. The results of the study show that learning supported with the EMGS has a positive effect on the1st-grade students' performance in mathematics tests. The study showed a significant improvement in the progress of the experimental group which used traditional teaching instruction supported with EMGS. Keywords: mathematical game, educational computer game, educational technology, teaching math, computer and instruction