Spatial intervention: An enduring model to build mathematics achievement

Australian Research Council Discovery Grant

Chief Investigators: Tom Lowrie, Ilyse Resnick, Tracy Logan, and Sitti Patahuddin

Project Summary

Strong evidence links spatial skills with mathematics achievement, but the reasons remain theoretical. The aim of this project is to empirically establish the mechanisms connecting spatial reasoning with mathematics performance, including longitudinal interventions to provide evidence for long-term impact. The project is significant given the heightened concern surrounding Australian students’ performance on national and international assessments. Expected outcomes are a detailed understanding of the ways enhanced spatial skills improve mathematics performance, and empirically tested intervention programs. Anticipated benefits include improved accessibility of mathematics education and sustained mathematics performance for all students.

Project Objectives

  1. To empirically establish the mechanisms that connect spatial reasoning to mathematics performance
  2. To develop digital and non-digital tools to enhance spatial reasoning
  3. To produce spatial reasoning interventions that are proven to deliver improved mathematics performance over time
  4. To contribute to improving the performance of Australian students in mathematics skills testing

Watch our video about the study

Want to get involved?

To find out more information or to join the study, please email us at fadia.younes@canberra.edu.au or serc@canberra.edu.au.

Or call us on (02) 6206 8536.

We currently have opportunities for:

  • Schools
  • Teachers
  • Primary and Secondary Students
  • Postgraduate students
  • University of Canberra student interns