Toku uses short timers to make fluency measurable across repeated attempts. Research on fact fluency supports targeted practice, while research on timed conditions helps inform how that challenge is presented to children.
Why Toku uses short timers
A fixed short window makes speed and accuracy comparable from one attempt to the next and keeps the task compact.[1][2]
Why personal progress matters
Research on timed versus untimed mathematics shows that timing changes the task, which is why Toku centres the comparison on the child’s own progress and keeps accuracy visible alongside speed.[3][4]
What useful timed practice looks like
Useful timed practice still looks accurate and purposeful. The goal is for your child to beat their own previous performance as well-understood number facts and procedures become easier to retrieve.[3]
Related Toku science pages
References
- Robin S. Codding, Matthew K. Burns & Gracia Lukito (2011). Meta-analysis of mathematic basic-fact fluency interventions: a component analysis. Learning Disabilities Research & Practice.
- Gabrielle P. Douglas et al. (2026). A meta-analysis of mathematics fact fluency interventions for students in kindergarten through grade 6. Journal of Learning Disabilities.
- Joanne M. Tsui & Michele M. M. Mazzocco (2007). Effects of math anxiety and perfectionism on timed versus untimed math testing in mathematically gifted sixth graders. Roeper Review.
- Mark H. Ashcraft & Jeremy A. Krause (2007). Working memory, math performance, and math anxiety. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review.