The effect of computer-aided 3D modeling activities on pre-service teachers’ spatial abilities and attitudes towards 3d modeling

Abstract

The computer-aided 3D modelling which is one of the innovative technologies can offer great opportunities to improve students’ skills. The aim of this research was to examine the effects of computer-aided 3D modeling activities on pre-service teachers’ spatial abilities and attitudes towards 3D modeling and the relevant course. The study group of the research was composed of 55 pre-service IT teachers at a state university in Turkey. The research was carried out in quasi-experimental design based on pre-post test model. The experimental research was carried out with the experimental group for 14 weeks. During the 3D modeling learning/ teaching process, a five-stage education framework based on problem-based and project-based learning approaches was used. “Purdue Visualization of Rotations Test” and “Attitude Scale towards 3D Modeling and 3D Modeling Course” were used as data collection tools in the research. As a result, it was found out that computer-aided 3D modeling activities improved the spatial abilities of pre-service teachers also increased their attitudes towards 3D modeling and the course. It was concluded that the education of computer-aided three-dimensional modeling offers important opportunities to improve spatial abilities.