Embodied interaction, spatial language, and mathematical communication: The moderating role of classroom engagement

Mathematical communication is essential for effective mathematics learning, yet many students struggle to communicate mathematical ideas. Grounded in Embodied Cognition Theory, Conceptual Metaphor Theory, and the 4E Cognition Framework, this study examined the influence of embodied interaction on mathematical communication among Ghanaian SHS students, with spatial language as a mediator and classroom engagement as a moderator. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 420 SHS 2 and SHS 3 students selected through multistage sampling. Data were analysed using SEM. Embodied interaction significantly predicted mathematical communication (β = .321, p < .001). Spatial language partially mediated the relationship (indirect effect = .209, 95% BC CI [.114, .293]), whereas classroom engagement did not significantly moderate it (β = .055, p = .131).