Investigating the Predictors of Spatial Skills Essential for Construction Science Student Success in the Digital Age

Abstract

This study investigated spatial ability, domain knowledge, and domain real-world experience as predictors of spatial skills. One hundred seventy-seven construction science students participated in the study. The study instrument included seven psychometric tests and two questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and path analysis were used for the study. Results from the study were inconclusive and did not provide answers to the research questions. Correlations between variables were weak, although some were significant. Additionally, results from the path analysis revealed a lack of direct effects between the hypothesized predictors and spatial skills. It is possible that measurement error may have influenced the study results due to heterogeneity of sample, mixed measurement scales, and lack of item reliability. The current study did however present a new conceptualization of spatial skills as an amalgamation of predictors – spatial ability, domain knowledge, and domain real-world domain experience. Recommendations for future research are for factor analyses of the variables domain knowledge and spatial skills. There is also a need for greater reliability of items currently used to measure domain knowledge. Given the inconclusive results, further research is needed before instruction for spatial skills can be advanced.