Spatial Thinking Skills: How Do We Develop Them?

This study examines social studies pre-service teachers’ perceptions of spatial thinking skills. Using a phenomenological research design, the researchers conducted interviews and identified three main themes: spatial thinking education, strategies for finding addresses, and experiences that contribute to the development of spatial thinking skills. The findings show that participants consider spatial thinking important for both daily life and teaching. They emphasize the need for more practical and technology-supported instruction, as well as opportunities to develop these skills from an early age. Participants reported using navigation applications, asking others for directions, and relying on landmarks and mental maps when finding locations. The study concludes that spatial thinking should be strengthened through more practice-oriented educational programs and potentially through compulsory courses from an early age. APA 7 Reference Arıkan, A. (2025). Social studies pre-service teachers' perceptions of spatial thinking skills. Ege Coğrafya Dergisi, 34(1), 169–188. https://doi.org/10.51800/ecd.1616895 #SpatialThinking #Education #GeographyEducation #ProblemSolving