The Effects of Instructional Interventions on the Academic Achievement of Students with Mathematical Learning Difficulties

Introduction: The aim of this study is to make an up-to-date and detailed analysis by synthesizing different types of primary studies that examine the effect of instructional interventions for students with mathematical learning difficulties on academic achievement. Method: Different types of studies that examine the effects of instructional interventions for students with mathematics learning difficulties on academic achievement were analyzed using meta-analysis method. The effect size values of the studies, the test of heterogeneity, publication bias and information about the moderator analysis were calculated using the CMA (Comprehensive Meta Analysis) statistical program. Findings: The study revealed that intervention programs prepared for students with mathematical learning difficulties had a wide effect on the academic achievement levels of students (Hedge g = 0.764, %95 CI = 0.494-1.033). Discussion: The overall effect size (0.764) obtained from the studies shows that instructional interventions have a positive effect on the mathematics performance of students with learning difficulties. It is seen that different instructional interventions have been developed in order to support these students. The instructional interventions support students in the process of learning mathematics, and continue to raise awareness on the learning difficulties. As a result, it can be stated that more instructional intervention studies are needed.