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.