Abacus in Education
Abacus: A Brief Introduction
The abacus is an old mathematical tool. Before we go into the advantages and disadvantages of using an abacus, let us first define what an abacus is
The abacus has a history dating back to 300 BC, when the Babylonians utilized its forerunner, the Salamis tablet.
Originally, the abacus was only a flat platform, bamboo sticks, and pebbles, but since the introduction of the Chinese abacus Suanpan, the abacus has evolved into a legitimate tool. Now it’s formed of rods, frames, beads, and so forth.
Pros of Using an Abacus
1. Learning Mental Math
Mental math is the capacity to solve mathematical problems without utilizing a calculator. It is an effective skill that not only increases a child’s arithmetic confidence but also prepares them for higher-level exams (such as the SAT and university entrance tests).
In Japan, many businesses regard efficient calculation skills as the major personnel selection criteria. Young adults and youngsters can prepare for future work opportunities by taking regular abacus sessions from a young age.
Proper abacus training teaches you how to mentally compute larger numbers in seconds. If you master mental math with an abacus, you’ll be able to perform large calculations in your head and save time on tests.
2. Teaching Counting Effectively
Abacus learning is the most effective tool for teaching numbers and basic counting to children. You can introduce an abacus as early as you desire. Allow the child to become accustomed with the counting device before beginning your approach.
The multicolored beads immediately capture children’s attention and help them grasp the fundamental notion behind the number. You can separate one bead (to the right) in the first row, two beads in the second row, three beads in the third row, and so on.
One of the most significant advantages of utilizing an abacus is that it allows children to learn numbers. Use it appropriately, and you will notice results.
3.Makes Math Fun
Indeed, kids don’t care if a calculator has been scientifically demonstrated to be useful. All kids need to do is have fun, which an abacus may help with.
I’m referring to young youngsters aged three to ten years old. These children must learn how to count, add, multiply, and so on. Their school curriculum focuses on basic mathematical processes. In such cases, children frequently become bored and turn away from math.
Introducing an abacus to your children can not only make arithmetic more enjoyable, but it will also help them overcome their math fear. It will assist students avoid disliking math and giving up on any math-related job opportunities.
At Ideal Play Abacus (IPA) we have been training several students over the last 21 years and they have shown tremendous improvement in speed , accuracy and concentration
We first teach them the concepts using the tool and then they start calculating mentally
