The Effect of Solid Geometry Activities of Pre-service Elementary School Mathematics Teachers on Concepts Understanding and Mastery of Geometric Thinking Levels

Abstract

The present study explored whether the implementation of focused activities (intervention programme) can enhance 22 pre-service mathematics teachers' proficiency in solid geometry thinking level as well as change for the better their feelings in this discipline. Over a period of 6 weeks the pre-service teachers participated in activities and diversified experiences with 3D shapes, using illustration aids and actual experience of building 3D shapes in relation to the various spatial thinking levels. The research objectives were to investigate whether the intervention programme, comprising task-oriented activities of solid geometry, enhance mathematics pre-service teachers' mastery of their geometric thinking levels as well as examine their feelings towards this discipline before and after the intervention programme. The findings illustrate that learners' levels of geometric thinking can be promoted, entailing control on higher thinking levels as well as a more positive attitude towards this field.