Spatial Ability, Sex Differences, and Pictorial Training Among Children Using 3-D Environments to Recall Landmark Locations

• In Event: Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: Instructional Technology SIG Roundtable Session: Computer Training in the Classrooms

Abstract

This study examines the effects of spatial ability, sex differences, and pictorial training on 4th grade students’ ability to recall landmark locations from memory. Ninety-six students engaged in an instructional strategy that involved using Google Earth to locate landmarks (3-D) and mark their location on a topographical map (2-D). Analysis of covariance on post-test scores revealed that spatial ability was a significant predictor of student performance. The results support the efficacy of the instructional strategy and provide insight into the role of 3-D virtual environments in development of spatial knowledge among young children. Implications are discussed for the design of instruction that uses 3-D technology to support landmark recall among young children.

Authors

• Beryl Ann Otumfuor, Fulton County Schools

• Theodore J. Kopcha, University of Georgia

• Lu Wang, University of Georgia