Research On The Learning Model Of Spatial Ability With Application Of 3D Virtual Environment

Spatial ability is a significant component of human intelligence and an important professional ability in areas such as engineering and design. Traditional teaching methods of display and design include sketch, effect drawing and 3D physical model with the purpose of enhancing students’spatial modeling and thinking ability. With the development of computer graphic and network technology, it is now possible to conduct learning activities in a highly realistic virtual environment. This combines 3D virtual environment and 3D entity environment together in developing learners’spatial ability. Such exploration and communication based on 3D virtual environment have good interactive and intuitive effect with various potential advantages of enhancing space display ability. Therefore, this study took 3D virtual space as the extension of 3D entity space, utilized the problem-based learning approach of constructivism and put forward a new problem-based learning model that is based on 3D virtual environment so as to support the development of students’spatial ability. By constructing learning model and conducting space visualization tests, the study explored the learning effect of this new learning model in the training practice of space visualization and the factors influencing space learning effect. An assist training system for improving beginners’space visualization ability was then developed.To be more specific, the study was conducted in the following steps.1. Systematically organized the results of researches on spatial ability. On the basis of the existing literature, the author organized the concepts, components and research history of spatial ability as well as the classification of spatial tests. Findings of both domestic and overseas researches on the applied computer technology and the teaching methods of developing learners’spatial ability were summarized.2. Constructed a new learning model based on 3D virtual environment. By summarizing the characteristics of 3D virtual environment, the study analyzed the potential advantages of applying 3D virtual environment in conducting constructivist space learning activities. Grounded on the analyses, a new learning model was established by combining 3D virtual environment and problem-based learning approach together.3. Tested and verified the effectiveness of this new learning model in developing the space visualization ability of college students of low grades. Under this model, learning activities based on in-class teaching were carried out in experimental group. Space visualization tests were given to the control group and the experimental group respectively after class. Results showed that applying 3D virtual environment in space learning activities under the guidance of the new learning model could help develop students’space visualization ability.4. Explored and confirmed the main factors influencing the new learning model in practice. Based on the interactive relationship of the new learning model, potential factors that influenced space learning effect were discovered. Through empirical investigation and Exploratory Factor Analysis, the essential factor influencing space learning effect and its influence degree in the interactive relationship of the new learning model were determined.5. Developed an assist training system for enhancing the space visualization ability of beginners majoring in display and design. Based on the research findings in the earlier stage and the newly established learning model, an assist training system for improving spatial ability was developed and its usability evaluated.