Visuospatial training improves elementary students' mathematics performance

Tom Lowrie

doi:10.1111/bjep.12142

Return

Visuospatial training improves elementary students' mathematics performance

2017-01-18

147

PRE

Tom Lowrie *

Tracy Logan

Ajay Ramful

DOI：10.1111/bjep.12142

Original

Original request for help

Save

Abstract

En 中文

BackgroundAlthough spatial ability and mathematics performance are highly correlated, there is scant research on the extent to which spatial ability training can improve mathematics performance. AimsThis study evaluated the efficacy of a visuospatial intervention programme within classrooms to determine the effect on students' (1) spatial reasoning and (2) mathematics performance as a result of the intervention. SampleThe study involved grade six students (ages 10-12) in eight classes. There were five intervention classes (n=120) and three non-intervention control classes (n=66). MethodsA specifically designed 10-week spatial reasoning programme was developed collaboratively with the participating teachers, with the intervention replacing the standard mathematics curriculum. The five classroom teachers in the intervention programme presented 20hr of activities aimed at enhancing students' spatial visualization, mental rotation, and spatial orientation skills. ResultsThe spatial reasoning programme led to improvements in both spatial ability and mathematics performance relative to the control group who received standard mathematics instruction. ConclusionsOur study is the first to show that a classroom-based spatial reasoning intervention improves elementary school students' mathematics performance.

Keywords:

spatial ability

spatial reasoning

mathematics performance

AI Summary

Key information extracted from the uploaded paper, including a brief overview, abstract, background, key highlights, visual analysis, and future outlook.