Being able to think and reason in 3-dimensions is an important life skill. It is also valuable for solving problems in mathematics and science. However it is not a skill that many teachers think about. I have been using the CAVE to encourage both primary and secondary pre-service teachers to think about how they visualise in 3D and problem solve in 3D.
- Used the campus flyover to ask pre-service teachers to identify and solve a mathematical problem
- Discussions around perspective and how 3D shapes change when viewed from different angles and distances
- Understanding of earth geometry
- Developing the ability to think and reason in 3D using the cube and other plutonic solids
- Exploring molecular orbitals and chemical bonds
These activities were all followed up with discussions about the implications for future classrooms
For further information contact: Dr Margaret Marshman mmarshma@usc.edu.au.