The potential for spatial ability development through the Swedish technology and craft compulsory curricula

Abstract Spatial ability has been demonstrated to be a significant predictor of students’ achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. While several studies have focused on offering supplementary or isolated spatial training interventions, this study focuses on spatial ability development through embedded interventions within technology curricula. Specifically, document analysis is adopted in this study to identify the potential areas for spatial ability development within the Swedish compulsory Technology and Craft curricula. A framework consisting of two dimensions has been established by a qualitative coding approach. The first dimension, termed the “visual dimension”, encompasses graphical, property, and manufactured components, reflecting the spatial nature of the information that students engage with. The second dimension, termed the “epistemic dimension”, comprises conceptual and procedural knowledge, representing the types of knowledge students acquire. The framework allows educators to identify potential areas for developing spatial ability within technology curricula. Additionally, it is envisioned that this framework could increase awareness of how to spatialise curriculum and pedagogies among various stakeholders, including policymakers and teacher trainers.