Current Search: Spatial Ability (x)
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- Title
- MENTAL ROTATION WITH MARTIAL ARTS EXPERTS.
- Creator
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Torres, Michael, Sims, Valerie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This research aims to investigate whether expertise, specifically martial arts expertise, is transferrable across domains, which would indicate spatial skills in one task can also apply to a seemingly unrelated one. In this study, reaction time during a mental rotation task was compared between experts and novices. Participants were shown two images and had to decide if the images were the same or mirror reflections. The images were comprised of Shepard-Metzler blocks, people in martial arts...
Show moreThis research aims to investigate whether expertise, specifically martial arts expertise, is transferrable across domains, which would indicate spatial skills in one task can also apply to a seemingly unrelated one. In this study, reaction time during a mental rotation task was compared between experts and novices. Participants were shown two images and had to decide if the images were the same or mirror reflections. The images were comprised of Shepard-Metzler blocks, people in martial arts poses, and people in neutral poses. The results suggest expertise is not transferable across domains. While experts outperformed novices with some of the martial arts stimuli, there was not a significant difference with the neutral poses. Novices performed better than experts with the Shepard-Metzler blocks. This suggests experts may have embodied some of the stimuli to facilitate faster reaction times. Further research must be conducted to investigate if any type of expertise is transferable across domains, which could assist in the development of employee training programs, and to validate the human figures used as stimuli.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFH0004881, ucf:45433
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004881
- Title
- EFFECTS OF A TREATMENT USING COMPUTER GENERATION OF ISOMETRIC AND ORTHOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS ON MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTSÃÂ' SPATIAL ABILITY.
- Creator
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Traas, Adam, Haciomeroglu, Erhan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The primary focus of this study examines the effectiveness of the CRIOSAT (Computerized Rotational Isometric and Orthographic Spatial) spatial ability treatment on a random sample of middle school studentsÃÂ' (n=137) spatial ability as measured by the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test: Rotations Test (PSVT-ROT) (Guay, 1977). The secondary focus of this study investigates the relationships between mathematical achievement, problem solving preferences, and spatial ability...
Show moreThe primary focus of this study examines the effectiveness of the CRIOSAT (Computerized Rotational Isometric and Orthographic Spatial) spatial ability treatment on a random sample of middle school studentsÃÂ' (n=137) spatial ability as measured by the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test: Rotations Test (PSVT-ROT) (Guay, 1977). The secondary focus of this study investigates the relationships between mathematical achievement, problem solving preferences, and spatial ability. The secondary focus was tested on a subsample (n=41), with the problem solving preferences measured via the Mathematical Processing Instrument (MPI) (Suwarsono, 1982). Findings indicated no significant gains in spatial ability scores after studentsÃÂ' use of the CRIOSAT treatment; while some increases in spatial ability took place in males. Significant positive correlation was identified between mathematics achievement and spatial ability; while conversely, a significant negative correlation was found between mathematics achievement and level of visual problem solving used by students.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003033, ucf:48345
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003033
- Title
- SPATIAL ABILITY AND EXPERTS OF NEEDLEWORK CRAFTS: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY.
- Creator
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Bailey, Shannon, Sims, Valerie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Spatial ability has been a topic of much research and debate over the past few decades. Yet, there are gaps in the current literature. Spatial ability refers to the aptitude of an individual to mentally rotate objects, visualize spaces, and recognize patterns (Linn & Petersen, 1985). A highly spatial task that is not addressed in research literature is crafting. Crafting may refer to knitting, crocheting, sewing, and other hobbies that include manipulations of materials. These crafts are...
Show moreSpatial ability has been a topic of much research and debate over the past few decades. Yet, there are gaps in the current literature. Spatial ability refers to the aptitude of an individual to mentally rotate objects, visualize spaces, and recognize patterns (Linn & Petersen, 1985). A highly spatial task that is not addressed in research literature is crafting. Crafting may refer to knitting, crocheting, sewing, and other hobbies that include manipulations of materials. These crafts are spatially oriented, because they necessitate mental rotation, pattern recognition, and 3-D visualization to create an object. While research tends to favor males on certain spatial tests (Voyer, Voyer, & Bryden, 1995), research on the relationship between expertise and spatial ability has concentrated on traditionally male dominated domains, such as architecture and video games (Salthouse & Mitchell, 1990; Sims & Mayer, 2002). The traditionally female domain of needlework crafting expertise has not been studied empirically. First, a literature review is presented to give an overview of previous spatial ability research. The paper then describes the needlework crafts of sewing, knitting, and crocheting, including their historical significance and the spatial processes involved. A study was conducted to test the hypothesis that more expertise in needlework crafts will correlate with better performance on spatial ability tests. Three hundred and four adult women (ages 18-77) completed the study. Participant experience level was determined by self-perceived level of crafting expertise. Participants performed three spatial ability tests from the ETS Factor Reference Kit (Ekstrom et al., 1976): Paper Folding, Surface Development, and Card Rotations. Results indicated that age was correlated negatively with performance in all spatial tests. Only age was significant in the Card Rotations Test. In the Surface Development Test, self-perceived Sewing Expertise was significant in predicting participants' test scores. For the Paper Folding Test, Knitting and Crocheting Expertise were significant, suggesting expertise may mitigate age effects.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0004106, ucf:44881
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004106
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF WEIGHT AND SIZE ON MENTAL ROTATION.
- Creator
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Furtak, Luke, Sims, Valerie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Shepard and Metzler (1971) argued that mental rotation is analogous to the real world in that people imagine the rotation of an object as if it were being physically rotated. This study tested this assertion by exposing participants to physical shapes that increased in size and weight. Participants interacted with blocks designed after Shepard and Metzler mental rotation size that differed in size and weight then performed subsequent mental rotation. We found no difference in reaction time...
Show moreShepard and Metzler (1971) argued that mental rotation is analogous to the real world in that people imagine the rotation of an object as if it were being physically rotated. This study tested this assertion by exposing participants to physical shapes that increased in size and weight. Participants interacted with blocks designed after Shepard and Metzler mental rotation size that differed in size and weight then performed subsequent mental rotation. We found no difference in reaction time but found that increased size reduced accuracy. We discuss the implications of this study as they pertain to embodied cognition.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004711, ucf:45399
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004711
- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF VIDEO FRAME DELAY AND SPATIAL ABILITY ON THE OPERATION OF MULTIPLE SEMIAUTONOMOUS AND TELE-OPERATED ROBOTS.
- Creator
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Sloan, Jared, Stanney, Kay, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The United States Army has moved into the 21st century with the intent of redesigning not only the force structure but also the methods by which we will fight and win our nation's wars. Fundamental in this restructuring is the development of the Future Combat Systems (FCS). In an effort to minimize exposure of front line soldiers the future Army will utilize unmanned assets for both information gathering and when necessary engagements. Yet this must be done judiciously, as the bandwidth for...
Show moreThe United States Army has moved into the 21st century with the intent of redesigning not only the force structure but also the methods by which we will fight and win our nation's wars. Fundamental in this restructuring is the development of the Future Combat Systems (FCS). In an effort to minimize exposure of front line soldiers the future Army will utilize unmanned assets for both information gathering and when necessary engagements. Yet this must be done judiciously, as the bandwidth for net-centric warfare is limited. The implication is that the FCS must be designed to leverage bandwidth in a manner that does not overtax computational resources. In this study alternatives for improving human performance during operation of teleoperated and semi-autonomous robots were examined. It was predicted that when operating both types of robots, frame delay of the semi-autonomous robot would improve performance because it would allow operators to concentrate on the constant workload imposed by the teleoperated while only allocating resources to the semi-autonomous during critical tasks. An additional prediction was that operators with high spatial ability would perform better than those with low spatial ability, especially when operating an aerial vehicle. The results can not confirm that frame delay has a positive effect on operator performance, though power may have been an issue, but clearly show that spatial ability is a strong predictor of performance on robotic asset control, particularly with aerial vehicles. In operating the UAV, the high spatial group was, on average, 30% faster, lazed 12% more targets, and made 43% more location reports than the low spatial group. The implications of this study indicate that system design should judiciously manage workload and capitalize on individual ability to improve performance and are relevant to system designers, especially in the military community.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000430, ucf:46379
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000430
- Title
- Detecting Threats from Constituent Parts: A Fuzzy Signal Detection Theory Analysis of Individual Differences.
- Creator
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Van De Car, Ida, Szalma, James, Hancock, Peter, Mouloua, Mustapha, Kennedy, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Signal detection theory (SDT) provides a theoretical framework for describing performance on decision making tasks, and fuzzy signal detection theory (FSDT) extends this description to include tasks in which there are levels of uncertainty regarding the categorization of stimulus events. Specifically, FSDT can be used to quantify the degree to which an event is 'signal-like', i.e., the degree to which a stimulus event can be characterized by both signal and non-signal properties. For instance...
Show moreSignal detection theory (SDT) provides a theoretical framework for describing performance on decision making tasks, and fuzzy signal detection theory (FSDT) extends this description to include tasks in which there are levels of uncertainty regarding the categorization of stimulus events. Specifically, FSDT can be used to quantify the degree to which an event is 'signal-like', i.e., the degree to which a stimulus event can be characterized by both signal and non-signal properties. For instance, an improvised explosive device (IED) poses little threat when missing key elements of its assembly (a stimulus of low, but not zero, signal strength) whereas the threat is greater when all elements necessary to ignite the device are present (a stimulus of high signal strength). This research develops a link between key individual cognitive (i.e., spatial orientation and visualization) and personality (i.e., extroversion, conscientiousness, and neuroticism) differences among observers to performance on a fuzzy signal detection task, in which the items to be detected (IEDs) are presented in various states of assembly. That is, this research relates individual difference measures to task performance, uses FSDT in target detection, and provides application of the theory to vigilance tasks. In two experiments, participants viewed pictures of IEDs, not all of which are assembled or include key components, and categorize them using a fuzzy rating scale (no threat, low threat potential, moderate threat potential, or definite threat). In both experiments, there were significant interactions between the stimulus threat level category and the variability of images within each category. The results of the first experiment indicated that spatial and mechanical ability were stronger predictors of performance when the signal was ambiguous than when individuals viewed stimuli in which the signal was fully absent or fully present (and, thus, less ambiguous). The second study showed that the length of time a stimulus is viewed is greatest when the signal strength is low and there is ambiguity regarding the threat level of the stimulus. In addition, response times were substantially longer in study 2 than in study 1, although patterns of performance accuracy, as measured by the sensitivity index d', were similar across the two experiments. Together, the experiments indicate that individuals take longer to evaluate a potential threat as less critical, than to identify either an absence of threat or a high degree of threat and that spatial and mechanical ability assist decision making when the threat level is unclear. These results can be used to increase the efficiency of employees working in threat-detection positions, such as luggage screeners, provides an exemplar of use of FSDT, and contributes to the understanding of human decision making.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0006016, ucf:51015
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006016
- Title
- Visuo-spatial abilities in remote perception: A meta-analysis of empirical work.
- Creator
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Fincannon, Thomas, Jentsch, Florian, Sims, Valerie, Bowers, Clint, Chen, Jessie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Meta-analysis was used to investigate the relationship between visuo-spatial ability and performance in remote environments. In order to be included, each study needed to examine the relationship between the use of an ego-centric perspective and various dimensions of performance (i.e., identification, localization, navigation, and mission completion time). The moderator analysis investigated relationships involving: (a) visuo-spatial construct with an emphasis on Carroll's (1993)...
Show moreMeta-analysis was used to investigate the relationship between visuo-spatial ability and performance in remote environments. In order to be included, each study needed to examine the relationship between the use of an ego-centric perspective and various dimensions of performance (i.e., identification, localization, navigation, and mission completion time). The moderator analysis investigated relationships involving: (a) visuo-spatial construct with an emphasis on Carroll's (1993) visualization (VZ) factor; (b) performance outcome (i.e., identification, localization, navigation, and mission completion time); (c) autonomy to support mission performance; (d) task type (i.e., navigation vs. reconnaissance); and (e) experimental testbed (i.e., physical vs. virtual environments). The process of searching and screening for published and unpublished analyses identified 81 works of interest that were found to represent 50 unique datasets. 518 effects were extracted from these datasets for analyses.Analyses of aggregated effects (Hunter (&) Schmidt, 2004) found that visuo-spatial abilities were significantly associated with each construct, such that effect sizes ranged from weak (r = .235) to moderately strong (r = .371). For meta-regression (Borenstein, Hedges, Figgins, (&) Rothstein, 2009; Kalaian (&) Raudenbush, 1996; Tabachnick (&) Fidell, 2007), moderation by visuo-spatial construct (i.e., focusing on visualization) was consistently supported for all outcomes. For at least one of the outcomes, support was found for moderation by test, the reliability coefficient of a test, autonomy (i.e. to support identification, localization, and navigation), testbed (i.e., physical vs. virtual environment), intended domain of application, and gender. These findings illustrate that majority of what researchers refer to as (")spatial ability(") actually uses measures that load onto Carroll's (1993) visualization (VZ) factor. The associations between this predictor and all performance outcomes were significant, but the significant variation across moderators highlight important issues for the design of unmanned systems and the external validity of findings across domains. For example, higher levels of autonomy for supporting navigation decreased the association between visualization (VZ) and performance. In contrast, higher levels of autonomy for supporting identification and localization increased the association between visualization (VZ) and performance. Furthermore, moderation by testbed, intended domain of application, and gender challenged the degree to which findings can be expected to generalize across domains and sets of participants.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004680, ucf:49858
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004680
- Title
- Tailoring Instruction to the individual: Investigating the Utility of Trainee Aptitudes for use in Adaptive Training.
- Creator
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Landsberg, Carla, Mouloua, Mustapha, Bowers, Clint, Neider, Mark, Van Buskirk, Wendi, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Computer-based training has become more prolific as the military and private businessenterprises search for more efficient ways to deliver training. However, some methods ofcomputer-based training are not more effective than traditional classroom methods. Onetechnique that may be able to approximate the most effective form of training, one-on-onetutoring, is Adaptive Training (AT). AT techniques use instruction that is tailored to the learnerin some way, and can adjust different training...
Show moreComputer-based training has become more prolific as the military and private businessenterprises search for more efficient ways to deliver training. However, some methods ofcomputer-based training are not more effective than traditional classroom methods. Onetechnique that may be able to approximate the most effective form of training, one-on-onetutoring, is Adaptive Training (AT). AT techniques use instruction that is tailored to the learnerin some way, and can adjust different training parameters such as difficulty, feedback, pace, anddelivery mode.There are many ways to adapt training to the learner, and in this study I exploredadapting the feedback provided to trainees based on spatial ability in line with Cognitive LoadTheory (CLT). In line with the CLT expertise reversal effect literature I hypothesized that for aspatial task, higher ability trainees would perform better when they were given less feedback.Alternately, I hypothesized that lower ability trainees would perform better during training whenthey were given more support via feedback. This study also compared two different adaptationapproaches. The first approach, called the ATI approach, adapts feedback based on a premeasuredability. In this case, it was spatial ability. The second approach, called the Hybridapproach adapts initially based on ability, but then based on performance later in training. Ihypothesized that participants who received Hybrid adaptive training would perform better.The study employed a 2(spatial ability; high, low) X 2(feedback; matched, mismatched)X 2 (approach; ATI, Hybrid) between-subjects design in which participants were randomlyassigned to one of the eight conditions. Ninety-two participants completed a submarine-basedperiscope operator task that was visual and spatial in nature. ivThe results of the study did not support the use of CLT-derived adaptation based onspatial ability; contrary to what was hypothesized, higher ability participants who received morefeedback performed better than those who received less. Similarly, lower ability participantswho received less feedback performed better than those who received more. While notsignificant, results suggested there may be some benefit to using the Hybrid approach, but moreresearch is needed to determine the relative effectiveness of this approach.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005646, ucf:50191
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005646
- Title
- Eye Movements and Spatial Ability: Influences on Thinking During Analogical Problem Solving.
- Creator
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Schroeder, Bradford, Sims, Valerie, Szalma, James, Neider, Mark, Gill, Michele, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Classic studies have examined the factors that influence the way in which people can solve difficult (")insight(") problems, which require creative solutions. Recent research has shown that guiding one's eye movements in a pattern spatially congruent with the solution improves the likelihood of formulating a spatial solution. The authors in this line of research argued that guiding eye movements in a pattern spatially equivalent to the solution of the problem yields an embodied cognitive...
Show moreClassic studies have examined the factors that influence the way in which people can solve difficult (")insight(") problems, which require creative solutions. Recent research has shown that guiding one's eye movements in a pattern spatially congruent with the solution improves the likelihood of formulating a spatial solution. The authors in this line of research argued that guiding eye movements in a pattern spatially equivalent to the solution of the problem yields an embodied cognitive benefit that aids problem solving. Specifically, guiding eye movements leads to the generation of a mental representation containing perceptual information that helps a problem solver mentally simulate the problem features, increasing likelihood to generate a solution to the problem. However, evidence from a small but critically relevant area of research supports that this embodied effect may be more simply a creativity-priming effect. The proposed research aimed to disentangle these ideas while addressing other research questions of interest: do embodied problem solving benefits transfer to later problem solving? Do individual differences in spatial ability influence how people solve these problems? The present study combined previously established methodologies in problem solving and analogical problem solving to investigate these research questions. Results of the present work tentatively support the embodied priming effect, mediated by a creativity-priming effect that influences problem solving performance. Both effects emerged after manipulating problem solvers' eye movements. There is also modest support for a link between spatial ability and analogical problem solving, but not initial problem solving. These results are interpreted through the lens of embodied cognitive theory, providing tentative support that guiding eye movements can influence reasoning through an enhancement of creativity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007366, ucf:52079
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007366