A structural analysis of visual spatial ability in academically talented students

The structure of spatial ability in a population of academically talented y outh was explored. Methods of Facet Theory and Multidimensional Similarity Structure Analysis (SSA) were used to analyze the correlational structure o f performance on 14 types of figural spatial tests in 2 samples of subjects . As in previous research, a cylindrical wedge model was found to describe the underlying structure well. The facet of dimensionality was represented in a polar way with the three-dimensional tasks in the core of a radex-like configuration and the two-dimensional tests in the periphery. The facet of mental rotation was identified to play a modular role as two different sub regions in the SSA solutions, one representing two-dimensional rotation and one representing three-dimensional rotation. Memory load was represented i n a similar fashion in one of the projections. Speededness emerged as a sep arate dimension in one of the plots. Indications for the existence of one m ore facet were found. The results agreed quite well with findings of previo us research in this area.