An Introduction to Mathematical Cognition

The last decade has seen a rapid growth in our understanding of mathematical learning and performance and an increased recognition of the importance of the topic. The book traces the development of mathematical skills from basic number concepts to mathematical proofs, emphasising the hierarchical nature of mathematical development from early childhood to research-level mathematics. Drawing on diverse methodology from behavioural experiments to brain imaging, each chapter begins with a classic problem used to investigate mathematical cognition, to give a concrete example of the issues addressed. The book will provide an essential introduction to the fragmented field of Mathematical Cognition.