A 3D Motion Controlled Method for the Training of Mental Rotation

Mental Rotation is the ability to rotate mental representations of two dimensional and three dimensional objects, and usually regarded as a predictor of math or science achievement. This study utilized a 6DOF-controlled method with stereoscopics in the training of mental rotation and investigated how these training methods may affect user´s learning performance, perceived playfulness, and willingness to continue use. To evaluate the method, a video/animation-based training method was used in control group. A subject test with 30 participants was conducted. These participants were classified into two groups and trained with two different methods respectively. Results showed that the 6DOF-controlled method with stereoscopics gained higher improvement of the difference from pre-test to post-test in average, although the difference was not significant. While considering perceived playfulness and willingness to continue use, the 6DOF-controlled method with stereoscopics gained higher scores significantly then the control group.