Bibliographic Details
| Title: |
Regional Disparities in Numerical Cognition: A Comparative Study of Chinese First-Graders from East and West. |
| Authors: |
Yan, Ruoyuan (AUTHOR), Yan, Linlin (AUTHOR), Gu, Xinhan (AUTHOR), Qian, Ping (AUTHOR) |
| Source: |
Journal of Cognition & Development. 2026, Vol. 27 Issue 4, p522-543. 22p. |
| Subjects: |
Regional disparities, Mathematical ability, Socioeconomic factors, Visual discrimination, Chinese people, Education policy, Magnitude estimation, Cognitive development |
| Geographic Terms: |
Hangzhou (China) |
| Abstract: |
This study explored regional disparities in numerical cognition among Chinese first-graders (aged 6–8 years, mean age 7 years old), comparing non-symbolic quantity and area perception abilities between children from Hangzhou (East) and Wuwei (West) provinces. Using identical dot-array stimuli for both number and area comparison tasks, we assessed baseline performance and tracked developmental changes among western students over one semester. Key findings include: (1) While both groups showed comparable accuracy in dot-number comparisons, eastern children responded significantly faster, suggesting superior numerical efficiency in numerical task; (2) In dot-area comparisons, western children exhibited greater susceptibility to numerical interference; (3) Longitudinal data showed western students' area perception aligned with eastern peers' initial performance after one semester, yet persistent reaction time differences remained, revealing approximately a half-year developmental gap. These findings highlight regional differences in early mathematical cognition, with eastern children demonstrating advantages in processing efficiency. The results underscore the importance of quality preschool education and suggest socioeconomic factors may contribute to these observed disparities. This research provides empirical evidence to inform educational policies aimed at reducing regional inequalities in cognitive development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: |
Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
