Current reforms in geometry seek to challenge prevailing ideas about "what it means to do mathematics" (p. 139) by engaging learners in "the grasping of space" (p. 241). This study takes up this challenge by investigating problematizing activity as an embodied phenomenon among 21 eighth-grade learners who engaged with spatial…

Despite progress toward gender equity, troubling disparities in mathematical problem-solving performance and related outcomes persist. To investigate why, we build on recurrent findings in previous studies to introduce a new construct, "bold problem solving," which involves approaching mathematics problems in inventive ways. We introduce…

Explores the role of spatial orientation skill in the solution of mathematics problems. Reports the role of estimating the approximate magnitude of a figure; demonstrating the flexibility to change; adding marks to show relationships; moving or assessing the size and shape of figure; and getting the correct answer. (YP)

Investigated was how girls and boys who were discrepant in their spatial and verbal performance used spatial visualization skills in solving word problems and fraction problems. It was concluded that low spatial visualization skill may be more debilitating to girls' mathematical problem solving than to boys'. (MNS)

Describes a study of third-grade students (N=38) that investigates the development of linear measurement concepts. Three levels of strategies were identified: visual guessing, hash marks, and no physical partitioning. Students who connected numeric and spatial representations proved to be the better problem solvers. Contains 22 reference. (DDR)

Investigated the effects of individual difference variables of field dependence/independence and spatial visualization ability on the performance of college students in three modes. The extent to which four variables account for variability in retention test performance on certain tasks was also viewed. (MP)

Investigates gender differences and the role of spatial visualization in problem solving in high school geometry. Reports that, whereas males and females differed in spatial visualization and in their performance, they did not differ in logical reasoning ability or in their use of geometric problem-solving strategies. (Author)