The role of visuo-spatial abilities in recall of spatial descriptions: A mediation model

This research investigates how visuo-spatial abilities (such as mental rotation - MR - and visuo-spatial working memory - VSWM -) work together to influence the recall of environmental descriptions. We tested a mediation model in which VSWM was assumed to mediate the relationship between MR and spatial text recall. First, 120 participants were assessed for MR and working memory (both visuo-spatial and verbal) abilities. Participants then listened to spatial descriptions and performed spatial recall tasks. The expected model was verified, indicating that it is possible to define an order for how visuo-spatial abilities modulate environmental learning, with MR as a predictor and VSWM as a mediator. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.