Why Learn the Abacus: Questions & Answers
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Following our previous article, we received some additional questions from our readers, so we are sharing these along with our answers.
Why learn the abacus when we have calculators and computers?
While in the past, abacus training had a practical use, it remains popular because it offers other benefits that are still relevant today:
- Improves math skills and increases interest in learning mathematics
- Enhances the following mental abilities: concentration, observation, memory, analytical skills, visualization, imagination, spatial awareness, and attention span
- Cultivates patience, self-confidence, self-discipline, and attention to detail.
- Promotes skills in listening, multitasking, and problem-solving
- Improves coordination between the eyes, ears, and hands
- Stimulates the development of both the left and right sides of the brain
Is it true that learning the abacus can improve concentration?
Yes, arithmetic calculations must be very precise. Even when using a calculator, it's easy to make a mistake and press an incorrect key if the mind is not focused. This is also true when using an abacus, where the student must be focused and alert to get the correct answer. Thus, the regular practice of this process improves your child's concentration ability.
What calculations can be done with an abacus?
Using an abacus, you can solve both simple and complex math problems. In addition to addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, we can also calculate decimals, square roots, and cube roots on the abacus.
To learn more, we have written a few articles on using the Japanese soroban:
Performing Addition and Subtraction on a Japanese Abacus
Performing Multiplication on a Japanese Abacus
When can children start learning the abacus?
Children can start learning the abacus at any age between 4 and 13. There are different advantages and disadvantages to a child starting an abacus math course at a younger or older age. See questions 5 and 6 to learn the pros and cons of starting at a younger age versus an older age.
Advantages and disadvantages of starting abacus learning early
The Advantages
Many studies have shown that the majority of human brain development occurs up to the age of 13. The development and growth of the brain accelerate the most between 4 and 6 years old, and progression slows after 13. Thus, it is more beneficial for a child's brain development to start earlier. Moreover, the earlier the child grasps the concepts of arithmetic calculations, the sooner they are able to apply these skills and excel in their regular school work. This will help strengthen their self-confidence.
Disadvantages
The student may take longer to understand basic concepts on the abacus, such as addition/subtraction formulas.
What are the advantages and disadvantages if my child starts learning abacus later?
The Advantages
Older children have a better knowledge of mathematics, so they can normally reach an advanced level in less time. This allows them to compensate for starting later in the curriculum.
Disadvantages
Older children may not feel as motivated at the beginning due to their strong foundation in math. If they continue to use the method taught to them at school to solve addition/subtraction questions, it will take them longer to benefit from using the abacus for calculations. They may also be less motivated to verify their Times Tables using the abacus method, as they may have already memorized them.
Will my child get confused between abacus math and school math?
No, it does not interfere with the methods of teaching mathematics at school. The abacus is considered an effective tool for learning mental arithmetic techniques to solve simple to complex arithmetic calculations. Calculation with an abacus relies on bead manipulation rather than arithmetic processes. Therefore, it can be considered as another method among many for solving math problems.
Can the abacus help children who struggle with math at school?
Children who have difficulty keeping up with the mathematics methods taught in school are the ones who benefit most from this program if they commit to it by doing their regular homework.
Generally, children begin learning numbers by counting on their fingers. However, it becomes very difficult to understand number relationships for numbers above 10, due to the lack of tangible objects to count. The abacus helps children easily grasp multi-digit number relationships by presenting numbers and their relationships as concrete beads instead of abstract regular arithmetic processes.
Using an abacus can also help young children easily understand mathematical concepts, such as place value, the decimal system, digit positions, etc. Once children understand numbers, they are likely to become interested in math. Here are some other positive effects.
Benefits of using the abacus for learning mathematics:
- Performs addition and subtraction instantly when numbers are placed on the abacus.
- Physically demonstrates the concept of decimals and the progression of units by tens.
- Improves understanding of composite numbers (by the use of supplemental numbers for 5 and 10).
- Uses a left-to-right calculation method, allowing for quick estimation and rounding.
- Works on a decimal rather than fractional system, an easy progression towards number systems.
If my child is already a good math student, what's the benefit of learning the abacus?
Beyond improving math skills, learning mental arithmetic through the abacus also stimulates the development of both sides of the brain, which can significantly improve your child's overall academic performance and grades in school.
