Journal Article

Relationship Between Spatial Abilities, Mental Rotation and Functional Anatomy Learning

Champely, Stéphane, Guillot, Aymeric, Thiriet, Patrice, Batier, Christophe, Collet, Christian

2007

Overview

This study investigated the relationship between visuo-spatial representation, mental rotation (MR) and functional anatomy examination results. A total of 184 students completed the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT), Mental Rotation Test (MRT) and Gordon Test of Visual Imagery Control. The time spent on personal assignment was also considered. Men were found to score better than women on both GEFT and MRT, but the gender effect was limited to the interaction with MRT ability in the anatomy learning process. Significant correlations were found between visuo-spatial, MR abilities, and anatomy examination results. Data resulting from the best students' analyzes underscore the effect of high MR ability which may be considered reliable predictor of success in learning anatomy. The use of specific tests during learning sessions may facilitate the acquisition of anatomical knowledge.

• Publisher: Springer,Springer Nature B.V,Springer Verlag
• Subject: Adolescent / Adult / Analysis of Variance / Anatomy / Anatomy - education / Cognitive Style / Computers / Correlation / Educational Measurement / Female / Form Perception / Gender Differences / Group Embedded Figures Test / Humanities and Social Sciences / Humans / Imagery / Learning / Learning Processes / Male / Mental Rotation Tests / Models, Anatomic / Optical Rotation / Psychological Tests / Psychomotor Performance / Reference Materials / Rotation / Sex Factors / Space Perception / Spatial Ability / Time / Visual Perception / Visualization