Numeracy gamification

The Smith Family sought HowToo Xpert’s assistance to create a digital version of Let’s Count – an early intervention program that develops preschool children’s mathematical abilities. Numerical proficiency is vital for successful learning, and children from disadvantaged backgrounds consistently achieve educational outcomes at a lower rate than their peers. Let’s Count aims to build the capabilities of educators and parents within a child’s network, fostering numerical familiarity from a young age.

A free eLearning solution was devised to improve the reach and cost-effectiveness of Let’s Count, and decrease the reliance on face-to-face training whilst achieving the same outcomes. Two eLearning modules were created to replicate the existing face-to-face Let’s Count training sessions. Incorporating theory and activities, the modules provide strategies for improving children’s mathematical abilities and for working with families to support their learning.

Visual elements and a conversational tone were utilised to maximise engagement, with self-reflection opportunities, learning checks and “brain breaks” throughout.

User experience and content testing was undertaken within the project’s early development stages. Feedback from these pilot studies was overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the modules’ ease of use and engaging visual elements. Following the resource’s nationwide rollout, The Smith Family’s management have welcomed its format as a creative way of reaching a growing number of children and educators. The online distribution of Let’s Count will continue to assist The Smith Family’s target to reach more of the 1.1 million disadvantaged young Australians as part of their Five-Year Strategy.

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The Smith Family and HowToo Xpert (formerly Savv-e) received the 2019 Silver LearnX Award for Best eLearning Design - Free eLearning Resource.