The Effectiveness of Using Interactive Applications on Enhancing Mathematical Skills and Academic Motivation in First-Grade Elementary School Students

Background and Objectives: With the expansion of digital technologies, the use of interactive applications has gained attention as a novel strategy in basic education. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of using interactive applications on enhancing mathematical skills and academic motivation in first-grade elementary school students. Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population consisted of all first-grade students in District 2 of Zanjan city in the 2025-2026 academic year. From this population, 54 students were selected via convenience sampling and assigned to an experimental group (n=26) and a control group (n=28). The experimental group used the interactive application "Beshmar o Begoo" ("Count and Say") as an educational supplement for 6 weeks (18 sessions of 20 minutes each). Data were collected using a researcher-made learning assessment test, an academic motivation questionnaire, and structured observation. The data were analyzed using mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative), including analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and qualitative content analysis. Findings: The quantitative results indicated that after controlling for the pre-test effect, there was a significant difference between the mean scores of the two groups in the variables of mathematical skills and academic motivation (p < .01). Furthermore, the qualitative results from observations showed a significant increase in happiness, concentration, active participation, and perseverance in the experimental group. Conclusion: Overall, the findings confirm the effectiveness of using interactive applications, particularly the "Beshmar o Begoo" app, in enhancing the mathematical skills and academic motivation of first-grade elementary students.