Practice report: six studies of spatial skills training in introductory computer science

Parkinson, J. , Bockmon, R., Cutts, Q. , Liut, M., Petersen, A. and Sorby, S. (2021) Practice report: six studies of spatial skills training in introductory computer science. ACM Inroads, 12(4), pp. 18-29. (doi: 10.1145/3494574)

Abstract

We have been training spatial skills for Computing Science students over several years with positive results, both in terms of the students’ spatial skills and their CS outcomes. The delivery and structure of the training has been modified over time and carried out at several institutions, resulting in variations across each intervention. This article describes six distinct case studies of training deliveries, highlighting the main challenges faced and some important takeaways. Our goal is to provide useful guidance based on our varied experience for any practitioner considering the adoption of spatial skills training for their students.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Parkinson, Mr Jack and Cutts, Professor Quintin
• Authors: Parkinson, J., Bockmon, R., Cutts, Q., Liut, M., Petersen, A., and Sorby, S.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Computing Science
• Journal Name: ACM Inroads
• Publisher: ACM
• ISSN: 2153-2184
• ISSN (Online): 2153-2192
• Published Online: 15 November 2021
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © The Author(s) 2021
• First Published: First published in ACM Inroads 12(4): 18-29
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy