The abacus as a didactic and technological resource in mathematics teaching

Abstract

This research investigates the use of the abacus as a pedagogical tool in teaching mathematics in the early years of elementary school. Given the availability of various digital resources, the study questions how this older technology can contribute to the contemporary learning process. The central objective is to understand the role of classic technological resources and identify the contributions of the abacus to mathematics teaching. The methodology adopted is exploratory and qualitative in nature, based on bibliographic research. Academic articles, teaching resources, and mathematics textbooks were analyzed. The results demonstrate that, although learning does not depend exclusively on concrete materials, the systematic use of the abacus, mediated by the teacher and connected to real-life situations, enhances the understanding of the number system. It is concluded that the tool, combined with appropriate methodological strategies, is fundamental for the appropriation of mathematical knowledge and operational techniques.