The National Achievement Survey 2021 among children in grade 5 reports that:
55% cannot apply operations of numbers in daily life situations.
69% cannot calculate the area and perimeter of simple geometrical shapes like triangles, rectangles, and squares.
58% cannot calculate the time intervals or duration of familiar daily life events using forward or backward counting/addition and subtraction.
55% cannot estimate the sum, difference, product, and quotient of numbers and verify the same using standard algorithms.
65% cannot convert fractions into decimals and vice versa.
(The National Achievement Survey (NAS) is a national level large-scale assessment conducted to obtain information about the learning achievement of students of Classes 3, 5, 8 and 10 studying in State Govt. schools, Govt. Aided schools, Private Unaided and Central Govt. schools.)
At Value Education Trust, we work with children from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds to help develop their numeracy and learning skills and achieve effective learning outcomes that will ensure better career opportunities.
One of the tools we use at Value Education Trust is the ABACUS.
Manipulating the beads on the abacus enables the children to develop a concrete understanding of number concepts, place value, and arithmetic operations. The tactile and visual aspects of the abacus enhance their ability to visualize and manipulate numbers, leading to improved number sense and mental math skills. Through regular abacus practice, children develop a strong foundation in numeracy, including skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. This solid understanding of numbers sets them up for success in more complex mathematical concepts and problem-solving later.
Beyond improving the children’s foundational numeracy, abacus learning also aids in the whole-brain development of children through its multisensory approach. Manipulating the beads engages the hands and fingers, stimulating fine motor skills. The visual representation of numbers on the abacus activates the visual cortex. Simultaneously, mental calculations and problem-solving activate the left brain hemisphere. Regular abacus practice improves concentration, memory, and analytical skills. Studies suggest abacus training enhances overall brain development, including spatial reasoning, numerical abilities, and creativity. It provides a holistic learning experience that fosters balanced growth in different areas of the brain, supporting cognitive development in children.
Currently, 150 children are enrolled in our project across five govt-aided schools. Our goal is to expand it to all districts in Kerala. We invite like-minded NGOs, corporates, and foundations to join us in shaping a brighter future for children.
