Modeling the Relations Between Self-Efficacy, Interest, Spatial Visualization, and Mental Rotation in STEM Education

• In Event: Pre-K–8–Focused Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Spatial visualization (SV) and mental rotation (MR) are advanced cognitive abilities and can be developed in STEM education. This study took primary and secondary school students as a sample (n=5612) to examine the effects of individual interest in STEM (ISL) and self-efficacy (SE) on SV and MR in STEM education. The outcomes of data modeling indicated that SE acted as mediator between ISL and SV/MR and had gender differences in its mediating effects which calls for further studies on the influencing factors of ISL/SE between genders. Findings of the study encourage STEM education puts great attention to spurring students’ SE, especially females’, in STEM activities related to SV/MR to cultivate talents and quality citizens in equity for a better future.

Authors

• Jing Lin, Beijing Normal University

• Liang Zeng, Beijing Normal University

• Huilei Han, Beijing Normal University

• David L. Fortus, Weizmann Institute of Science