Spatial training can improve mathematical performance under certain conditions
In short: A meta-analysis of 29 controlled studies involving 3,765 participants found that training spatial skills can lead to modest improvements in mathematics performance. The researchers observed that while spatial training also boosted spatial thinking, the benefits for math were most pronounced when using physical objects and in older participants.
By synthesizing data from 89 different experimental results, the study identified that using concrete manipulatives was more effective than computer-based training. The findings also suggest that math tasks closely related to the training tasks saw greater improvements. However, the researchers noted that we still do not fully understand the underlying mechanisms that allow these spatial skills to transfer to mathematical concepts.
Why it matters: Spatial training can boost math skills, especially when using physical tools and targeting older learners.
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Sources
- Source: Research: Hawes et al. (2022). Effects of spatial training on mathematics performance: A meta-analysis. Developmental Psychology. · other-oa
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