Methods and key findings in research on conversations in early years mathematics: a review of the literature

Abstract

This qualitative systematic review aims to provide insight into applied research methods and key findings in early years mathematical communication research. This literature review focuses on newly published research reporting on young pupils’ (age 5 to 10) mathematical communication and reasoning. Reporting on 13 studies published between 2016 and 2020, the review found video-recordings as a favourable method for data collection, given its ability to capture verbal and non-verbal communication. Another finding was that implementing classroom norms or rules for conversation could be useful for children learning to communicate productively. The review also reports on several tools for teachers to improve practice related to conversations and mathematical reasoning.