The Psychology of Arithmetic

"The Psychology of Arithmetic" by Edward L. Thorndike is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the psychological principles that underpin the teaching and understanding of arithmetic in elementary education, aiming to enhance educational practices through psychological insights. The text appears to focus on effectively measuring and improving students' arithmetical skills and reasoning through a structured approach based on empirical research. The opening of the book introduces key concepts in educational psychology, specifically related to the teaching of arithmetic, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the processes involved in learning arithmetic skills. Thorndike outlines the significant progress made in psychology regarding learning and habit formation, emphasizing the formation of connections between various arithmetic concepts and the importance of practice in developing these skills. He illustrates how a clearer definition of the functions of arithmetic education can lead to improved instructional methods, addressing issues such as the meanings of numbers, problem-solving, and the vital role language plays in mathematical understanding.