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Journal of Science Education and Technology

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17-03-2023

Spatial Navigation Test with Virtual Starmaze: the Role of Spatial Strategy in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education

Authors: Wenjing Wang, Xiaoshan Li

Published in: Journal of Science Education and Technology | Issue 6/2023

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Abstract

Spatial ability is an influential factor for academic performance in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. However, the roles of spatial strategies are unclear. Therefore, coupling with virtual Starmaze developed by fields of cognitive neuroscience, this study aimed to explore spatial strategy among STEM students and its role in academic performance. A virtual Starmaze was constructed to test how students complete a navigation test. A total of 172 college students majoring in STEM participated in this study. Modeling analysis showed students tend to use allocentric strategy when the difficulty of spatial tasks increased. Results further showed students with high STEM academic performance tended to use allocentric strategy while ones with low STEM academic performance tended to use egocentric strategy. Specifically, academic performances in science and mathematics learning were associated with the allocentric strategy, while academic performances in technology and engineering learning were associated with proficiency and hands-on ability.

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Title: Spatial Navigation Test with Virtual Starmaze: the Role of Spatial Strategy in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education
Authors: Wenjing Wang
Xiaoshan Li
Publication date: 17-03-2023
Publisher: Springer Netherlands
Published in: Journal of Science Education and Technology / Issue 6/2023
Print ISSN: 1059-0145
Electronic ISSN: 1573-1839
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10956-023-10038-z

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