Abacus Training Affects Math and Task Switching Abilities and Modulates Their Relationships in Chinese XXXX .

@entity1 @entity1032
UNASSIGNED: Our previous work demonstrated that @entity1032 ( @entity1032 ), a traditional Chinese calculation method, could help @entity1 improve their math abilities (e.g. basic arithmetical ability) and executive function (e.g. working memory). This study further examined the effects of long-term @entity1032 training on math ability in visual-spatial domain and the task switching component of executive function. More importantly, this study investigated whether @entity1032 training modulated the relationship between math abilities and task switching. The @entity1 were seventy 7-year-old @entity1 who were randomly assigned into @entity1032 and control groups at primary school entry. @entity1 in @entity1032 group received 2-hour @entity1032 training every week since primary school entry. On the contrary, @entity1 in the control group had never received any @entity1032 training. Math and task switching abilities were measured one year and three years respectively after @entity1032 training began. The results showed that @entity1032 @entity1 performed better than their peers on math abilities in arithmetical and visual-spatial domains. In addition, @entity1032 group responded faster than control group in the switching task, while no group difference was found in switch cost. Most interestingly, group difference was present in the relationships between math abilities and switch cost. These results implied the effect of @entity1032 training on math abilities as well as its relationship with executive function.
