Exploring the Roles of Visual Tools in Primary Mathematics to Achieve Learning Outcomes

The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of visual tools used by mathematics pre-service teachers in teaching primary mathematics, with a focus on achieving pupils' learning outcomes. Adopting a qualitative approach through a case study design, six mathematics pre-service teachers undergoing practicum attachments at various primary schools in Johor, Malaysia, were purposefully sampled as participants. Data collection included analysis of teaching plans, classroom observations, and interviews with the participants. The mathematical visual tools used for teaching primary mathematics were found to serve multiple roles: as inherent part of mathematics, concretisation of concepts, mitigate pupil difficulties, facilitate hands-on learning experiences, promote retention of information through repetitive use, and make mathematics interesting. In summary, the study underscores the critical role of visual tools in primary mathematics education and highlights the necessity for pre-service teachers to effectively integrate these tools to enhance pupils' learning outcomes.