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]
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.
^Moyer, P.S. (2002). "What are Virtual Manipulatives?". Teaching Children Mathematics. 8 (6): 372–377. doi:10.5951/TCM.8.6.0372.
^Carbonneau, K.J. (2013). "A meta-analysis of the efficacy of teaching mathematics with concrete manipulatives". Journal of Educational Psychology. 105 (2): 380–400. doi:10.1037/a0031084.
^Satsangi, Rajiv; Hammer, R.; Evmenova, A. (2018). "Teaching Multistep Equations with Virtual Manipulatives to Secondary Students with Learning Disabilities". Learning Disabilities Research & Practice. 33 (2): 99–111. doi:10.1111/ldrp.12166. S2CID149871579.