GeoSolvAR: Augmented Reality Based Application for Mental Rotation

Mental Rotation (MR) is an important aspect of spatial visualization which is essential for understanding geometry concepts like the visualization of 3D Solids. MR refers to the ability to mentally retain an object and accurately rotate it in space. Performing these tasks has shown to be difficult because it involves a series of manipulations like rotating, inverting, or twisting the objects in the 3D space mentally. To address this challenge, we have developed an MR training application called 'GeoSolvAR' for middle school students. GeoSolvAR is an Augmented Reality (AR) based application, where the use of AR enables the learners to accurately visualize and manipulate complex 3D objects. GeoSolvAR consists of learning activities which involve different types of MR tasks. Each activity consists of four phases-Predict, Observe, Explain and Feedback, where the first three stages are based on Predict-Observe-Explain (POE) strategy. This paper reports the results and observations of a study conducted with six 6th and 7th grade students to examine - (a) how students interact with GeoSolvAR to do MR, and (b) the usability of the application. Redesign measures informed by the results have also been discussed.