Title: Using Real-Time Data Display to Improve Conceptual Understanding and Spatial Visualization Ability 


Speaker: 
Ronald Thornton
Director, Center for Science and Mathematics Teaching
Tufts University

Abstract: 
A series of studies show that that students who use real-time data logging 
software (MBL) or observe its use in the context of mechanics Activity-Based Curricula 
such as Interactive Lecture Demonstrations, Workshop Physics, and RealTime Physics 
learn conceptually (as measured by the FMCE) and also show significant increases in 
spatial visualization ability (as measured by the Paper Folding Test and the 
Mental Rotation Test).  A non-science college course or even a traditional 
introductory course in physics does not increase students’ spatial ability. 
Science teachers exposed to two-weeks of Activity-Based exercises also significantly 
increased their spatial visualization ability.