The Impact of Spatial Ability on the Geometry Achievement of Taiwanese High School Students

• In Event: 42.083 - Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: 42.083-22 - Teaching and Learning Through an International Lens

Abstract

This research study examines whether spatial ability has an impact on geometry achievement in Taiwanese tenth grade students. The correlation between spatial ability and mathematics achievement in previous studies has yielded mixed conclusions. If a positive correlation is found, this study proposes cultivating spatial ability at an early age.
Ninety-nine students from a representative sample of Taipei high schools were given three ETS tests in a 40 minute period (one for geometry, two for spatial ability). The data were analyzed by SPSS software using Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis. The results showed a positive correlation between spatial ability and geometry achievement for one of the spatial tests (Embedded Figures), which is a good predictor of geometry score.

Author

• Sylvia W. Lee, Bowie State University