The Role of Spatial Reasoning in Learning Computer Science

Spatial reasoning concerns the locations of objects, their shapes, their relations to each other, and the paths they take as they move. People with high spatial reasoning scores are more likely to major in degrees in STEM disciplines and go into STEM careers than those with low scores. Spatial reasoning tends to be low amongst students of low socioeconomic status. We need to understand the the relationship between spatial reasoning, socioeconomic status, and success in learning computer science. If there are causal relationships among these variables, we will need appropriate interventions in order to broaden participation and improve success in computing education.