GeCla vs Spatial Skills Training

GeCla, short for Generator and Classifier, allows the user to generate a pattern, a frieze or a rosette with a previously chosen kind of symmetry starting from an asymmetric motif. It also allows the classification (with or without help from the program) of the patterns, friezes, rosettes obtained in this manner. In the end, the program provides a report of the errors committed. GeCla already has versions in five (PT, EN, IT, GE, SP) languages. The generator writes encoded information about the existing symmetries in the jpg image file generated. Then the classifier reads and interprets this coded information, which allows it (according to the level of aid chosen) to give information about how the classification process is going, preventing wrong choices, or only indicating at the end whether the classification is correct and, if not, indicating the first mistake. GeCla also includes a competition option. In it, each player generates a pre-agreed number of images and then both exchange images and each classifies the other's images. All steps are managed by the program, which in the end provides a report on eventual mistakes.

Space capacity, like the rest of cognitive components, can be developed and improved by specific training. This app works together with the book 'Exercises for the training of space skills', which will allow you to improve in this field. In addition, the training we offer has a double objective: to improve the levels of spatial capacity and to provide knowledge in graphic representation systems, necessary in professionals related to engineering and architecture. The training consists of solving exercises based on the sketched drawing of three-dimensional volumes. Several types of exercises are proposed to work on different cognitive aspects that have been distributed in five levels of learning, based on Bloom's taxonomy of learning (recognition, understanding, analysis, synthesis and evaluation). This training is especially suitable for high school students who study the branch of Science and Technology and for students who access architecture and engineering degrees. It is advisable to carry out the training intensively, at the rate of a two-hour daily session (which would be approximately equivalent to the completion of one level per day) for five consecutive days, and, as far as possible, during the first weeks of the academic year. With the proposed methodology, the student can train autonomously, without the need of a teacher's assistance. To visualize the three-dimensional figures, augmented reality technology is used, which allows virtual information to be added to existing physical information. For your use you will need a conventional computer with a webcam or a mobile device (Smartphone or Tablet). When executing the application associated with this book, the camera image will be accessed, so that, if you direct the lens to the pages of the book, you can view the virtual figures superimposed on the physical book through the screen of the device used .