Exploring Sense of Direction: A Comparative Study of Architecture and Fashion Design Students Using the Santa Barbara Sense of Direction Scale

Spatial abilities, including the Sense of Direction (SOD), are vital cognitive skills that shape how individuals navigate and interact with their surroundings. These abilities are especially important for architects, as their work involves designing spaces that are both functional and easy to navigate. This study explores the SOD of architecture and fashion design students in Hyderabad, India, using the Santa Barbara Sense of Direction (SBSOD) Scale. Significant differences were observed between the two groups, reflecting the influence of discipline-specific education and professional training on spatial skills. The study also assessed various constructs within the SBSOD Scale to examine individual differences and preferences. These findings provide valuable insights into the nature of spatial abilities, particularly the sense of direction which is perceived as an innate spatial ability is observed to be influenced by demands of the profession- specific education and training offering implications in the domain of architectural education.