teaching abacus-based math online
The abacus tool is a simple structure with a series of rods each containing 5 counters. The rods represent various units of measures like ones, tens, hundreds, and so on. Through the movement of counters on rods inside the abacus tool, students learn how to perform foundational mathematical operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Only two fingers are needed to move abacus beads up and down the apparatus. With these two fingers, you can compute millions, billions, trillions and more depending on the number of rods comprising the abacus.
The abacus method of learning is effective because it teaches students ultimately how to perform mathematical computation through visualization of an abacus. After some time of physical abacus practice, the imaginary abacus develops in your head. It goes with you anywhere you go. Whatever you do, you cannot help but use it. This is called Anzan (mental math).
Mental Math skills using imaginary abacus are phenomenal. Students perform way above grade level at school. That gives a head start for advanced math in higher grades. Students gain tremendous confidence in classrooms.
As part of abacus practice, each number is carefully studied. This approach helps students build strong concentration skills. This is further developed through Dictation and Flash Anzan techniques [see FAQ] taught in our intermediate and advanced programs.
With speed and accuracy, using two fingers to control abacus beads develops dexterity. It strengthens fine motor skills with excellent hand-eye coordination, which are only developed in early years.
Abacus learners ultimately process written number and abacus beads as mental images. The processing speed of those images is so fast that it expands working memories and cognitive capabilities.
The abacus learning journey challenges students with exams and competitions at a pace suited to individual’s needs. In a safe and supportive environment, students learn how to push themselves to achieve goals and develop tenacity that will benefit them in many aspects of their life.
Joyful Abacus School provides online lessons accessible to individuals worldwide, with in-person classes available in limited capacity. Our adaptable lesson schedule presents a variety of options (refer to the Schedule), catering to both individual learners and home-schooling groups.
Our instructor, Akiko Amano, Ph.D. has taught college-level math and engineering subjects. After realizing the need of strong computational skills in elementary math, she decided to train children with abacus-based math. She runs her abacus instruction in partner with teachers at the Kawakami School in Japan.
Our small group lessons are designed to be inclusive and supportive of each student’s unique learning needs. Students are encouraged to be inquisitive and ask questions both inside and outside our weekly lesson. Our program ensures an environment that welcomes students of all ages, genders, and races.
Akiko Amano, originally from Osaka, holds bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering from Sophia University. She earned her Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Oregon Health & Science University. She has extensive experience in engineering education, particularly in machine learning, audio signal processing, and information processing. She contributed to the research and development of hearing aids and cochlear implants at the House Research Institute in Los Angeles, California. In 2023, driven by her passion for Math Education combining personal experience with abacus and parenting, she founded Joyful Abacus School LLC. She provides abacus instruction in both Japanese and English to students across Washington state and beyond through online and in-person classes.
Welcome to Joyful Abacus School, where joy and engagement are at the heart of everything we do. Learning the abacus here is not just about mastering math skills, but about celebrating each "I can do this!" moment and finding fun in every challenge. I take immense pride in recognizing your child's small achievements and working together to overcome any hurdles. We believe in understanding the challenges and steadily enhancing skills, ensuring that every step forward is a celebration.
Communication with parents is also important to me. I am committed to responding promptly to individual needs and keeping you involved in your child's progress. My goal is for your child to experience the profound benefits of abacus math, mastering techniques that will empower them to tackle future challenges with confidence.
Also, adult students are welcome, whether you're revisiting the abacus or exploring it for the first time. I am excited to get to know your family and support your journey with the abacus!
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