Doing Mathematics Without Understanding It: A Commentary on Higbee and Kunihira

Yodai mnemonics for learning mathematics appear to stress the manipulative aspects of the subject at the expense of its conceptual aspects. Mnemonics may help children learn arbitrary associations but are likely to be less helpful when the material to be learned has conceptual links not expressed by the mnemonic cover story. Yodai mnemonics do not replace the language of mathematics, nor do they apparently capture much of its structure. Their major advantage for American children may be in providing opportunities for oral expression. Claims that some Yodai mnemonics address problem-solving processes seem exaggerated.