An Analysis of Elementary School Students’ Problem Solving Processes Related to Spatial Sense Using an Eye-Tracking Method

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the difference in eye-fixation and eye-movement during problem solving processes related to spatial sense between the higher spatial sense group and the lower spatial sense group using an eye-tracker. The subjects of this study included 10% higher spatial sense group (n=16) and 10% lower spatial sense group (n=17) out of 152 fifth graders of H Elementary School in Seoul. The subjects were asked to solve six problems presented on the computer monitor. Three of the problems were related to nets and the remaining three were related to building blocks. First, we recorded and analyzed the students’ problem solving processes using an eye-tracker, and then conducted interviews. The results of the analysis revealed significant differences in problem solving processes related to nets and building blocks between the higher group and the lower group. Based on the results, we induced a few didactical implications for encouraging elementary students’ abilities on problem solving related spatial sense.