Improvement in Freehand Sketching Application for Spatial Visualization Training

Abstract

Spatial visualization is the cognitive ability of mentally representing and manipulating two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures. This is a learnable cognitive skill that has been correlated with increased GPA's and retention in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines. Traditional spatial visualization training includes freehand sketching assignments, which require human grading. A spatial visualization training application (app) was developed in which students freehand sketch on a touchscreen and an automatic grading algorithm provides immediate feedback. In spring 2014, the app was used with iPads in a one-unit spatial visualization course where students took pre- and post-spatial visualization assessment tests. In 2014, 46% of the students who scored low on the pre-assessment had a significant improvement of 10% or more on the post-assessment. This chapter describes how the app was modified to increase student gains: the user interface and assignments were modified, taking advantage of color and cues that are not present in the traditional paper-based sketching assignments; and gamification was added to motivate increased persistence. The course was taught with the newly modified app in 2017, during which 82% of incoming students with low spatial skills showed significant improvement. The increase from 46 to 82% is attributed to the capability of pen and touch technology to be adapted effectively for educational purposes.