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