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Testing of spatial reasoning has a long history, which is often closely related to intelligence testing. Its methodology utilizes standard psychometric procedures and principles, which are based on traditional performance items format. In our study we bring functional prototype of innovative approach to the spatial ability testing supported by the advantages of computerized testing. We present three items with shared principle based on video presentation of a car ride through urbanized area and following identification of schematic depiction of its route. On a pilot sample of ten respondents (three women) we verified basic functionality of the item format and proposed the research design of a follow-up study focusing on identification of constructs influencing performance, including modified variant of items with interactive response interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presented study we analyzed data from Test of learning potential (years 2011 and 2012), more specifically from the Spatial ability subtest. The total number of twenty item principles was evaluated using different approaches. Common psychometrical analysis was based on a large dataset with more than a thousand persons for each test form in both years. Further we performed a qualitative analysis of inquiry from 15 persons focused on solving strategies (with respect to the share of verbal-analytic and visual-analogue processes). The outcome from quantitative and qualitative item analyses is a selection of most relevant item principles which will constitute a base ground for practice-relevant test of spatial ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial ability belongs among the most important mental capabilities that plays a major role in everyday life of a (wo)man. Traditional tests of spatial ability often reduce this skill into more or less simplified tasks. The interpretation of test scores thus can lack ecological validity. The innovative principle with the use of advanced computer media enables us to establish item types that can better measure complex manifestations of spatial ability. In the present study we suggest specific designs of innovative items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]