The Role Of Using Origami In Improving Geometric Skills Among Students With Learning Disabilities In The Elementary Stage

Abstract

This study explored the impact of using origami-based activities on developing geometry skills and knowledge among students with learning disabilities in the elementary stage. The study used the qualitative-descriptive approach and relied on three instruments, a test of geometry knowledge for fifth-grade students, activities for the intervention period (origami activities and iconic-symbolic activities), and semi-structured interviews. Six students with learning disabilities from Irbid City, Jordan, were selected to be part of this investigation. the students showed high effectiveness in overcoming challenges in some basic engineering concepts, and they prominently demonstrated the role of folding activities in developing this knowledge, such as symmetry, diagonals, angles, and opposite sides. The students themselves had positive opinions about the folding activities, which were reflections on the intervention experience in general. The results of the study showed the improvement of the students in understanding some geometric concepts using the origami-based activities.