Mathematics, Geometry, Pedagogy, Curriculum Design
Spatial perception is vitally connected to how we make sense of the world. Geometry, a pillar of mathematics, is very important even for content that is not strictly geometrical (Atiyah, 2001). Research highlights the importance of visuospatial reasoning within and beyond mathematics (Stieff & Uttal, 2015). Unfortunately, the findings of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (Clerkin, Perkins, & Cunningham, 2016) show a relative weakness in geometric shapes and
measure compared to number, and a significant gender achievement gap in favour of boys for Irish primary children. This issue must be addressed particularly in light of ongoing technological developments which strengthen the need for high-quality geometry teaching (Watson et al., 2013).