Effect of Type of Practice in a Computer-Aided Design Environment in Visualizing Three-Dimensional Objects From Two-Dimensional Orthographic Projections
Richard T. Duesbury, Harold F. Jr. O'Neil 1996 Journal of Applied Psychology v81n3pp249-260

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of practice in manipulating 2- and 3-dimensional (D) wireframe images on a learner's ability to visualize 3-D objects. Practice, either rotational or not, consisted of visualizing 2- and 3-D objects generated by personal computer (PC)-based computer assisted design software. Results indicated that participants in the rotation treatment group performed significantly better than the control group on measures of metacognition, effort, and worry. These results support a conclusion that spatial ability can be improved through practice that allows the learner to see the relationship between the 2-D and 3-D features of objects.

Special Interest: Spatial Thinking
Resource Type: Journal Article
Research on Learning: Instructional Design:Use of Technology, Spatial Intelligence:3D, Spatial Intelligence, Instructional Design