MathGALING (Games, Activities, and Lectures to Improve Numeracy Grasp) of Learners: Transformative Innovation in Elementary Mathematics

This study examined the impact of MathGALING (Games, Activities, and Lectures to Improve Numeracy Grasp), a game-based learning approach designed to enhance numeracy skills among elementary learners. Recognizing the alarming decline in numeracy proficiency, the research investigates the effectiveness of integrating interactive games into mathematics education. Employing a qualitative research design, the study involved 40 elementary students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, utilized semi-structured interviews, observations, and teacher interviews to gather data. Key findings revealed that MathGALING significantly reduced students' anxiety towards mathematics and increased their confidence, with male students favoring the game-based elements and female students appreciating collaborative learning. Socioeconomic factors played a crucial role, as students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds reported a lack of access to engaging educational resources, which MathGALING effectively addressed. Parental educational attainment influenced student engagement, while different grade levels exhibited varying benefits from the program. The study underscored the importance of innovative, interactive learning environments in mathematics education and suggests implications for educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers. Limitations included sample size and reliance on self-reported data, leading to recommendations for longitudinal and comparative studies to further explore the long-term effects of game-based learning on numeracy skills.