Title: Expert Evaluation of MATHFUN: Manipulative-Based Tools for Teaching Fundamental Multiplication
Authors: Shiela Mae S. Awitan
Ma. Gloria E. Liquido
PhD
Volume: 10
Issue: 2
Pages: 127-133
Publication Date: 2026/02/28
Abstract:
This study developed, validated, and evaluated MATHFUN: Manipulative Activities and Tool for Hands-On Fundamental Multiplication for Grade 3 learners, to produce an instructional material that is developmentally appropriate, conceptually clear, and practical for classroom use. Specifically, it sought to assess the quality of MATHFUN in terms of age appropriateness, clarity of concept connection, ease of use and manipulation, learner engagement, and minimal distraction to learning. A descriptive developmental research design was employed, documenting the systematic process of instructional material development, which included needs analysis, design and production, expert validation, revision, and pilot testing. The study was conducted at Mariana L. Pineda Elementary School, providing an authentic learning context where fundamental multiplication concepts are introduced. A researcher-made validation checklist served as the primary instrument for data collection. The checklist underwent expert validation and pilot testing to establish its validity and reliability. A purposive sampling technique was used to select at least five educational experts, including master teachers and mathematics educators with relevant experience in elementary mathematics instruction and instructional material evaluation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, particularly percentages and weighted means. Findings revealed that MATHFUN received consistently high ratings across all evaluation criteria. Experts strongly agreed that the material is highly age-appropriate and aligned with the cognitive, physical, and attentional capacities of Grade 3 learners. The tool demonstrated strong conceptual clarity, effectively helping learners visualize multiplication through grouping and repeated addition. MATHFUN was also found to be user-friendly, safe, and practical, requiring minimal teacher assistance and supporting active learner engagement with minimal distraction. Minor areas for improvement were noted in task difficulty balance, material durability, and visual simplification. Overall, the results confirm that MATHFUN is an effective manipulative-based instructional tool for teaching fundamental multiplication in Grade 3 classrooms.