Volume 14, Number 3

Preschoolers Learning Spatial Reasoning Skills with Digital and Non-Digital Activities at Home: A Pilot Study

  Authors

Ashley E. Lewis Presser ¹, Ximena Dominguez ², Danae Kamdar ² and Philip Vahey ³, ¹ Education Development Center, USA, ² Digital Promise, USA, ³ Applied Learning Insights, USA

  Abstract

This paper explores the development and initial testing of a home-based, preschool spatial learning program with digital games, books, and hands-on activities. Spatial thinking, despite its importance in future career trajectories, is not as commonly targeted as other mathematics topics and digital games and play-based activities hold promise in engaging preschoolers in fun, engaging spatial thinking learning. The pilot study involved 49 low-income preschool families to evaluate a home-based spatial reasoning intervention. Findings suggest that families were able to engage their children in mathematical activities successfully, parents began to see digital games as useful tools with unique affordances for learning, and most importantly, children made significant gains in spatial thinking after engaging in the program. The intervention’s positive effects on preschoolers’ spatial reasoning and caregiver engagement suggest broader societal benefits by supporting early math skills critical for future STEM achievement and educational success.

  Keywords

Preschool, spatial learning, digital games, parental caregivers, tablets