The effects of web based 3D design application on spatial ability

The aim of this study is to examine the effects of using a web-based 3D design program on the spatial abilities of seventh-grade students. The study was conducted with 32 seventh-grade students attending a public school. An explanatory sequential design, one of the mixed-method research designs incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection tools, was used based on a weak experimental design with a single experimental group. Tests measuring the subcomponents of spatial ability were applied before and after the implementation. The "Spatial Visualization Test (SVT)" was used to assess spatial visualization skills, the "Spatial Relations Test (SRT)" for spatial relations skills, and the "Spatial Orientation Test (SOT)" for spatial orientation skills. As part of the study, web-based three-dimensional design activities were developed and applied to enhance spatial ability. SPSS 22 statistical software was used for data analysis. The findings indicated that the use of web-based three-dimensional software created a significant positive difference between students' pre-test and post-test scores in spatial visualization, spatial relations, and spatial orientation. Keywords: Spatial Ability, Spatial Visualization, Spatial Relations, Spatial Orientation, Tinkercad