How does the visuospatial sketchpad affect arithmetical ability? Details please?

Question

I am trying to determine this but all my mind can think of is rehearsal in the phonological loop. Are there any studies which prove this link? Is it because,

'if a quick mental representaion can be determined the more space is available to do the sum', where and how can this be proved?

Answer 1

The role of visuo-spatial working memory in children’s mathematics was explored in one study, where a discrepancy definition was applied to identify children with poor mathematics or poor visuo-spatial abilities. The data provided an initial indication that normal visuo-spatial sketchpad development may be important for normal mathematics development.

The overarching conclusion is that working memory, and the central executive and visuo-spatial sketchpad in particular, may support the development of early mathematical ability.

Alan Baddeley did a great deal of work in this area, you may benefit from reading some of his texts. Try looking his work up on 'Google Scholar.'

Answer 2

van der Sluis, Sophie; van der Leij, Aryan; de Jong, Peter F. Working Memory in Dutch Children with Reading- and Arithmetic-Related LD. [References]. [Journal; Peer Reviewed Journal] Journal of Learning Disabilities. Vol 38(3) May-Jun 2005, 207-221.
Year of Publication
2005

2.
i Pastells, Angel Alsina; Saiz Roca, Dolores. A comparative analysis of the phonological loop versus the visuo-spatial sketchpad in mental arithmetic tasks in 7-8 y.o. children. [Spanish]. [References]. [Journal; Peer Reviewed Journal] Psicothema. Vol 15(2) May 2003, 241-246.
Year of Publication
2003

3.
Earnst, Kelly S; Wadley, Virginia G; Aldridge, Traci M; Boothe Steenwyk, Amy; Hammond, Anne E; Harrell, Lindy E; Marson, Daniel C. Loss of financial capacity in Alzheimer's disease: The role of working memory. [References]. [Journal; Peer Reviewed Journal] Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition. Vol 8(2) Jun 2001, 109-119.
Year of Publication
2001