Algebra equation solving performance by LD and non-LD students using hands-on equations (grades 6-8)

This dataset contains quantitative student performance data from a study
investigating the effectiveness of the Hands-On Equations program, Level
1, a balance model-based manipulative approach, for teaching algebraic
equations to middle school students. The dataset captures pre- and
post-instructional scores on algebra tests administered to a diverse
sample of students, including those in regular and Learning Disabled (LD)
classrooms. The dataset is structured with individual student records,
containing scores from three distinct assessment points. Data from a total
of 167 students (Grades 6-8) across three LD classes (n=46) and five
regular classes (n=121) from a middle school in the Northeastern United
States. The dataset consists of students' numerical scores across the
three assessment time points. The dataset is designed to facilitate
comparisons of student performance: within-grade gains (pre-test vs.
post-tests; differences in performance between LD and regular classrooms;
and relative improvements between LD and regular student groups. The
analysis of this dataset showed considerable score enhancements from
pre-tests to post-tests for all participating classes (both regular and
LD), with LD students exhibiting significantly greater average gains than
regular students. This dataset holds reuse potential for researchers
interested in mathematics education (particularly algebra instruction at
the middle school level), the efficacy of concrete manipulatives in
teaching abstract mathematical concepts, and instructional strategies for
students with learning disabilities (LD). It may be particularly useful to
researchers who want to compare other educational interventions to the
Hands-On Equation program and to researchers who desire to compare
learning gains that can be obtained with the same educational intervention
across different student populations. The anonymized student-level scores
make it valuable for various statistical re-analyses or meta-analyses. The
data set includes the six equations presented on each test, and any
further information can be obtained from the author. Concerning ethical
considerations, the data was collected anonymously via forms where
teachers recorded scores without personal identifiers. Number codes
replaced personal names during data processing to ensure
de-identification. Research Domain (OECD Fields of Science and Technology
classification): 5.3 Educational sciences Keywords: Algebra Education,
Mathematics Manipulatives, Learning Disabilities, Middle School, Hands-On
Equations, Equation Solving, Educational Interventions