Enhancing Mental Rotation Skills Through Google SketchUp

Abstract

Spatial skills include the creation of objects in the mind and visualization them from different angles. This study examines the impact of Google SketchUp program on the development of mental rotation skills from spatial skills of eleven-year-old students. The study was conducted as a mixed method research. The quantitative research method of the study is descriptive and survey method was used. The qualitative research method used in the study is case study. In the study MGMP, MRST and interview form were used as data collection tools. A total of 170 eleven-year-old students completed MGMP test. Five students from them with low, middle and high spatial skill levels were selected for the qualitative study via purposeful sampling. Before Google SketchUp training, the mental rotation skill levels of five students were determined by applying MRST. Students were then given training on mental rotation with Google SketchUp. Then, their mental rotation levels were evaluated again. The mental rotation levels of the students were assessed according to the SOLO taxonomy. As a result of the study, it was concluded that Google SketchUp is an effective program for the development of students' mental rotation skills. © 2018 by authors, all rights reserved.