An Exploratory Study of Spatial Ability and Student Achievement in Sonography

Spatial ability refers to an individual's capacity to visualize and mentally manipulate 3D objects. Since sonographers manually manipulate 2D and 3D sonographic images to generate multi-viewed logical, sequential renderings of an anatomical structure, it can be assumed that spatial ability is central to the perception and interpretation of these medical images. However, little is known about the relation between spatial ability and performance of sonographers. This study explores this possible relationship. Seventeen first-year sonography students were administered a spatial abilities test prior to their initial scanning lab coursework. The students' spatial ability scores were compared with their scanning competency performance scores after the first 30 hours and after two semesters of instruction. A significant relationship between the students' spatial ability scores and their scanning performance scores was found. This study suggests that the use of spatial ability tests for admission to sonography programs may improve student selection as well as assist programs in adjusting instruction and curriculum for students who demonstrate low spatial ability.