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Relationship Between Spatial Abilities, Mental Rotation and Functional Anatomy Learning

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Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between visuo-spatial representation, mental rotation (MR) and functional anatomy examination results. A total of 184 students completed the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT), Mental Rotation Test (MRT) and Gordon Test of Visual Imagery Control. The time spent on personal assignment was also considered. Men were found to score better than women on both GEFT and MRT, but the gender effect was limited to the interaction with MRT ability in the anatomy learning process. Significant correlations were found between visuo-spatial, MR abilities, and anatomy examination results. Data resulting from the best students’ analyzes underscore the effect of high MR ability which may be considered reliable predictor of success in learning anatomy. The use of specific tests during learning sessions may facilitate the acquisition of anatomical knowledge.

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Acknowledgements

HEYDE Martine and RASTELLO Olivier for their technical help, Service PRACTICE, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, Bâtiment ”Le Quai 43”, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre de Recherche et d’Innovation sur le Sport, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, 27-29 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622, Villeurbanne cedex, France

    Aymeric Guillot, Stéphane Champely, Patrice Thiriet &  Christian Collet

  2. Service PRACTICE, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, Bâtiment “Le Quai 43”, 43 Boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622, Villeurbanne Cedex, France

    Christophe Batier

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  1. Aymeric Guillot
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  2. Stéphane Champely
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Correspondence to Aymeric Guillot.

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Guillot, A., Champely, S., Batier, . et al. Relationship Between Spatial Abilities, Mental Rotation and Functional Anatomy Learning. Adv in Health Sci Educ 12, 491–507 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10459-006-9021-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10459-006-9021-7

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