Work

Does the Approximate Number System Serve as a Foundation for Symbolic Mathematics?

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: In this article we first review evidence for the approximate number system (ANS), an evolutionarily ancient and developmentally conservative cognitive mechanism for representing number without language. We then critically review five different lines of support for the proposal that symbolic representations of number build upon the ANS, and discuss potential causes of conflicting findings in the literature. Finally, we consider potential mechanisms that could drive a relationship between the ANS and symbolic math. We conclude that while there is considerable evidence the relationship between the ANS and symbolic math is meaningful, we are far from understanding the cognitive and neural mechanisms that underlie this relationship.

Source: Language Learning and Development

DOI: 10.1080/15475441.2016.1263573

Authors: Emily Szkudlarek, Elizabeth M. Brannon

Institution: University of Pennsylvania

Language: English

Topic: Cognitive and developmental aspects of mathematical skills

Subfield: Statistics and Probability

Field: Mathematics

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Awards: G1174653729, Improving Math Ability via Primitive Number Sense Training