Soroban - japońskie liczydło w edukacji matematycznej XXI wieku

Abstract

The subject of this paper is the Japanese abacus soroban. It contains shortened description of its structure and history. The paper presents the results of the research of foreign authors of the application of soroban in didactic practice. It shows the advantages coming out of its usage in mathematical education: cognitive development, improvement of numerical memory and concentration, growth of ability in the range of the application of basic arithmetic operations. Some risks coming out of the use of the abacus have not been omitted i.e., stiffening of the ways of executing the calculations or lack of inventiveness in solving problems. The paper presents the results of research of introduction of soroban for mathematical education into Polish schools. It discusses motivation of students to use this tool and the most common mistakes committed by them. It searches for the answer to what the most effective methods of teaching execution of calculations using soroban are. The text also includes the encouragement to undertake empirical research on wider scale to use soroban in Polish educational practice.