RMATHs: Mobile based numeracy learning applications for students with learning disabilities

Abstract

Providing quality basic education for all children is one of the Malaysian Government’s commitments, as promised by the 164 signatory countries under the UNESCO Agreement. This goal is very challenging, particularly for children with learning disabilities. Besides that, the number of students with learning disabilities represents the largest group of students in special education classes in Malaysia. There are three main problem faced by special education students in learning activities, specifically: cognitive, physical and sensory disabilities. These learning disabilities lead to low academic performance and often result in other problems such as inappropriate school behavior due to a lack of motivation towards the learning process. The Mobile Based Numeracy Learning Application (RMATHs) program is currently proposed to help those at-risk students to master basic numeracy skills with the assistance of technology. RMATHs is created for learning disabilities (LD) students in primary schools in Malaysia, specifically, for students in Special Education Integration Program (SEIP) classes. The content has been adapted and aligned with the Integrated Curriculum for Learning Disabilities issued by the Ministry of Education Malaysia. The unique features of RMATHs include the use of an attractive technologybased tool, namely, mobile devices; in addition to the design of learning interactions and activities being suitable for LD students. Learning activities and the environment of RMATHs are designed based on Constructivist Learning Environment and Mayer Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. It is expected that LD students will understand the topic that they have learnt through RMATHs since it is specifically designed according to their needs.