Importance of spatial visualization skills in Hungary and Turkey

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to review research results and compare spatial abilities of prospective elementary mathematics teachers from Hungary and Turkey. The tests in a way that it contained the important components of the spatial ability (imaginary manipulation of the object, projection description and projection reading, reconstruction, transparency of the structure) were used; such as Mental Cutting Test, Purdue Spatial Visualization Test and Heinrich Spatial Visualization Test. By right of the curriculum of the two countries it can be said that for teaching the spatial geometry small time has left in both countries. The results of the survey verify that many students have problems with imagining a spatial figure and therefore to solve the spatial geometry exercises. As a future study, it is being planned to make special interactive worksheets to develop of spatial ability. Keywords: Spatial ability, Mathematics education, Spatial test