Spatial Skills in Undergraduate General Education Math: An Investigation
Advisor Information
Dr. Michelle Friend
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
26-3-2021 12:00 AM
End Date
26-3-2021 12:00 AM
Abstract
Spatial reasoning skills are foundational to understanding and succeeding with mathematics. Data was taken from a pre-and post-course diagnostic exam of spatial skills given in a general education mathematics class at a midwestern university. Responses to two questions were analyzed. Results from analysis of the first question demonstrate an improvement in understanding of symmetry among students. They also suggest that not all general education math students come into their class with an understanding of how to write a coordinate points. Results for the second question demonstrate that many students do not possess strong spatial awareness skills, as they provide answers which could not exist. These errors commonly occur in both the pre and post-course tests.
Spatial Skills in Undergraduate General Education Math: An Investigation
Spatial reasoning skills are foundational to understanding and succeeding with mathematics. Data was taken from a pre-and post-course diagnostic exam of spatial skills given in a general education mathematics class at a midwestern university. Responses to two questions were analyzed. Results from analysis of the first question demonstrate an improvement in understanding of symmetry among students. They also suggest that not all general education math students come into their class with an understanding of how to write a coordinate points. Results for the second question demonstrate that many students do not possess strong spatial awareness skills, as they provide answers which could not exist. These errors commonly occur in both the pre and post-course tests.