The neural bases of the multiplication problem-size effect across countries

28Citations
Citations of this article
63Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

Multiplication problems involving large numbers (e.g., 9 × 8) are more difficult to solve than problems involving small numbers (e.g., 2 × 3). Behavioral research indicates that this problem-size effect might be due to different factors across countries and educational systems. However, there is no neuroimaging evidence supporting this hypothesis. Here, we compared the neural correlates of the multiplication problem-size effect in adults educated in China and the United States. We found a greater neural problem-size effect in Chinese than American participants in bilateral superior temporal regions associated with phonological processing. However, we found a greater neural problem-size effect in American than Chinese participants in right intra-parietal sulcus associated with calculation procedures. Therefore, while the multiplication problem-size effect might be a verbal retrieval effect in Chinese as compared to American participants, it may instead stem from the use of calculation procedures in American as compared to Chinese participants. Our results indicate that differences in educational practices might affect the neural bases of symbolic arithmetic. © 2013 Prado, Lu, Liu, Dong, Zhou and Booth.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Prado, J., Lu, J., Liu, L., Dong, Q., Zhou, X., & Booth, J. R. (2013). The neural bases of the multiplication problem-size effect across countries. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, (APR 2013). https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2013.00189

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free