Spatial training using game play in preschoolers improves computational skills

ABSTRACT

Previous studies have found that block play results in better spatial ability which may lead to greater mathematical skills. The current study examined a specific type of block play, structured block play in which a copy of a block configuration is constructed. Structured block play is a difficult cognitive task that requires an understanding of spatial relations, hand-eye coordination, and spatial working memory among others. This preliminary study was designed to determine whether training using structured block play would lead to improvements in skills linked to mathematical thinking. Two groups of children participated in the study. One group played a competitive structured block building game once a week for 8 weeks. A control group was also tested. All participants completed a kindergarten readiness assessment before and after the 8-week period. Children in the block play group showed significant improvements in the computation module of the assessment, showing improvements in the makes a set of objects smaller or larger skills. No such effect was observed for the control group. The results presented demonstrate that young children can, with assistance, engage in structured block play and that they have cognitive benefits from such block building activities.

KEYWORDS:

• Preschool
• spatial play
• computation

Acknowledgments

This was an unfunded study.

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author, SDN. The data are not publicly available due to restrictions (e.g., their containing information that could compromise the privacy of research participants).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sharlene D. Newman

Sharlene D. Newman is a professor and the executive director of the Alabama Life Research Institute at the University of Alabama.

Erin Loughery

Erin Loughery obtained her degree in early childhood education and worked as a preschool teacher.

Ambur Ecklund

Ambur Ecklund is a neuroscience major at Indiana University.

Marriah Smothers

Marriah Smothers is a recent graduate of Indiana University with a major in psychology.

Jefney Ongeri

Jefney Ongeri is a recent graduate of Indiana University with a major in neuroscience.