A Review of Research Studies on the Teaching of the Metric System

Abstract

This article is a review of the research studies on the teaching of the metric system and measurement. The method is descriptive and the data consist of the results of research studies. All studies found were reviewed. Conclusions drawn are: students possess inadequate knowledge of the metric system and of the relationship between metric and English units; studies provide evidence of the metric controversy; students and teachers have difficulty in appraising quantitative value; studies suggest that the metric system should be taught at the grade school level and the English system de-emphasized; modern instruction is superior to traditional instruction in the area of measurement; and research studies in the area of measurement and the metric system are few.