The relationship between the logical-mathematical and spatial operations levels in older preschoolers

Abstract

Groups of logical-mathematical and spatial-temporal operations are allocated in the subject's logical thinking system. The logical-mathematical operations include classification, seriation, developing invariants (understanding the principle of conservation). The spatial-temporal operations include structuring space operations (linear ordering, transformation of geometrical forms, reconstruction of sensomotornogo space at the level of ideas), time structuring. The logical-mathematical operations display linkages and relationship between discrete objects, and spatial operations relate to continuous objects. According to Piaget, the two operation groups are developing parallelly and simultaneously. The aim of the research is to study the nature of the relationship between the levels of development of decentration, logical-mathematical operations on the one hand and the structuring of space and spatial perception on the basis of empirical data. To diagnose levels of logical-mathematical and spatial operations classic techniques of Piaget were used. Technique of Bender gestalt testor was used to diagnosis level of spatial perception. During the study there were mapped the levels of development of decentration, classification and seriation logical operations, understanding the concervation principle (on different material), spatial operations of linear structuring, transformation of geometrical forms, reconstruction of sensomotornogo space, spatial perception in 52 examinees (5-8 years). Spearman correlation rank method and multiple regression analysis were used for statistical data processing. There were identified statistically significant correlations between: 1)spatial linear ordering operation one hand and logical seriation and understanding of the conservation principle of discrete quantities on the other; 2) spatial transformation of geometrical shapes operation and seriation logical operation and classification; 3) spatial perception and understanding of the conservation principle of discrete quantities and volume. As a result of regression analysis it was found that significant predictor for development indicators of the operation of a linear ordering and spatial perception is the understanding of the conservation principle of discrete quantities, while for the level of ability to transform geometric shapes the predictor was the level of classification and seriation logical operations. It was concluded that the Piaget hypothesis obtained a statistical justification, so that subject's logico-mathematical and spatial reasoning system operations are develop interconnected.