Dynamic three-dimensional illustrator for teaching descriptive geometry and training visualisation skills.

Martín ‐ Gutiérrez, Jorge; Gil, Francisco Albert; Contero, Manuel; Saorín, José L.

This article presents a pilot study with architecture students, in which the effects of descriptive geometry, taught conventionally and using a three-dimensional dynamic tool designed for the purpose, on the improvement of spatial abilities are compared and analysed. In relation with previous works, the main contribution of this research is the development of a three-dimensional viewer (Diedro-3D) to support the teaching process, encouraging autonomous learning. The Diedro-3D application tries to overcome the main obstacle that student face when using a descriptive geometry textbook: static 2D illustrations of high complexity. This is achieved by providing a series of construction steps and supporting a 3D visualisation environment where the student can freely change the point of view. It is important to note that students show a high degree of satisfaction with the learning experience using Diedro-3D as usability analysis confirms. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21: 8-25, 2013

STUDY & teaching of descriptive geometry; INTERACTIVE learning; METRIC geometry; MENTAL rotation; SPACE perception; ORTHOGRAPHIC projection; ISOMETRIC projection

Computer Applications in Engineering Education, 2013, Vol 21, Issue 1, p8

1061-3773

Academic Journal

10.1002/cae.20447