The definition of visualization in engineering graphics has evolved over the years due in part to extensive research in visualization by the engineering design graphics profession. The literature indicates research in the areas of engineering graphics and the use of visualization has grown from improvement of visualization skills and the…

The ability to graphically depict objects in two- and three-dimensional space is fundamental to engineering design practice. Historically, engineers have used pencil, paper, and erasers to draft preliminary sketches and to transform initial drafts into precise production drawings. With the proliferation of computer-aided design (CAD) software…

The ability to rotate visual mental images is a complex cognitive skill. It requires the building of graphical libraries of information through short or long term memory systems and the subsequent retrieval and manipulation of these towards a specified goal. The development of mental rotation skill is of critical importance within engineering…

Spatial visualization skills are vital to many careers and in particular to STEM fields. Materials have been developed at Michigan Technological University and Penn State Erie, The Behrend College to assess and develop spatial skills. The EnViSIONS (Enhancing Visualization Skills-Improving Options aNd Success) project is combining these materials…

As the result of a qualitative investigation into spatial ability, a teaching technique called mentored sketching was found to be effective for teaching visualization skills to freshman engineering students. This contribution describes the technique, how it evolved, and comments made by students as to its effectiveness. While mentored sketching…

Spatial visualization is a fundamental skill in technical graphics and engineering designs. From conventional multiview drawing to modern solid modeling using computer-aided design, visualization skills have always been essential for representing three-dimensional objects and assemblies. Researchers have developed various types of tests to measure…

Cubic symmetry is used to build the other four Platonic solids and some formalism from classical geometry is introduced. Initially, the approach is via geometric construction, e.g., the "golden ratio" is necessary to construct an icosahedron with pentagonal faces. Then conventional elementary vector algebra is used to extract quantitative…

In engineering and visual arts, visualization and manipulation of objects is necessary. Describes effective factors on performance which include spatial skills. Describes a project that is designed to increase engineering students' visualization skills. Lists objectives, hardware, and software requirements for the project and considers long term…

Describes a pregraphics course for freshman engineering majors weak in three-dimensional spatial visualization skills. Freshman students scoring less than 60% correct on the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test: Rotations (PSVT:R) were counseled into the course. Gain scores for students after the course on the PSVT:R were shown to be statistically…

Illustrates the use of a course focused on developing 3-D spatial skills at Michigan Technological University. Provides data to support the recommendation that some students take the spatial skills course before enrolling in the regular engineering graphics courses. (DDR)

Described is a pilot course which includes a designed set of exercises to instruct students in procedures for creating solid models. A detailed description and analysis of students' various approaches used in completing a final design project are included. (KR)

Described is a course that offers students the opportunity to learn the graphics language of computers in conjunction with the traditional engineering design graphics concepts. The course objectives, course description, course administration, and advantages to using the dual approach are included. (KR)

Described is the evolution of a multimedia approach for teaching Computer Aided Design (CAD). The presentation includes video tapes, a computer, an overhead camera, and hard-copy handouts containing class notes and CAD assignments. Also described is a complete "on-demand" training system for future use. (KR)