Connecting mathematics learning through spatial reasoning

Realising Australia’s Innovation and Science Agenda fundamentally rests on transforming the nation's mathematical capacity. Spatial reasoning, an emerging transdisciplinary area, is proving integral to all human learning. It is particularly critical to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. This project will create an innovative knowledge framework based on spatial reasoning that identifies new pathways for mathematics learning, pedagogy and curriculum.
This project spans the domains of psychology and cognitive science, neuroscience, mathematics education psychology and mathematics, providing new perspectives on how spatial reasoning links with STEM education. Network analysis applies analytical methods to examine relationships within and between elements of spatial reasoning as a connected system.
Novel analytical tools will map the unknown complex systems linking spatial and mathematical concepts. It will involve the design, implementation and evaluation of a longitudinal intervention study of primary students, including tracking of highly able students.
This will result in a Spatial Reasoning Mathematics Program (SRMP) intervention with primary school students to develop a knowledge framework aligned with the Australian Curriculum–Mathematics so as to inform policy and practice. The knowledge framework that connects spatial reasoning with mathematics learning will be developed through the use of novel analytical tools to measure and describe the relationships between spatial and mathematical competencies.