Training spatial skills in geosciences: A review of tests and tools

Kristin M. Gagnier, Thomas F. Shipley, Basil Tikoff, Bridget C. Garnier, Carol Ormand, Kinnari Atit, Ilyse Resnick

Research output: A Conference proceeding or a Chapter in BookChapterpeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Characterizing spatial thinking and the development of spatial expertise is essential to understanding how to train geoscientists to succeed in both academia and industry. The Spatial Intelligence and Learning Center has supported an eight-year-long collaborative research program, which brings together disciplinary expertise in cognitive science and geology to characterize and develop spatial thinking in the geological sciences. To facilitate our understanding of science education and practice, we have characterized the spatial skills of geoscience discipline experts and the spatial thinking impediments experienced by students studying the geological sciences. In this chapter we review recent research on measuring and improving spatial thinking skills in the geosciences and on characterizing individual differences in spatial thinking, including the role of gender and age. We conclude with a discussion of important unanswered questions and some directions for future research. The research discussed here may help guide the development of best practices for spatial thinking training in both academic and industry settings.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication3-D Structural Interpretation
Subtitle of host publicationEarth, Mind, and Machine
EditorsBob Krantz, Carol Ormand, Brettq Freeman
Place of PublicationUnited States
PublisherAmerican Association of Petroleum Geologists
Chapter2
Pages7-23
Number of pages17
ISBN (Electronic)9781629812779
ISBN (Print)9780891813910
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2016
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameAAPG Memoir
Volume111
ISSN (Print)0271-8529

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