Abstract

Recent studies have shown that strengths in spatial skills are a key to success in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) careers. However, these skills are undervalued in our educational system and thus seldom incorporated in classroom teaching. As a first step towards changing the current practices, we worked with a group of elementary school teachers who participated in an in-service workshop on spatial thinking and problem solving. The workshop emphasized the meaning, importance, and malleable nature of spatial skills and introduced a simple spatial activity, QuickDraw, that could be implemented during group instruction time. Those teachers who implemented this activity over the course of the school year reported various benefits of practicing spatial skills. Implications for preparing students for STEM careers are discussed. (Contains 2 figures)

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