Spatial task performance in apparel design: Influences of strategy, strategical information processing style, and training

The study investigated how performance on a spatial task in apparel design was influenced by use of strategy, strategical information processing style, and level of training. The sample consisted of 278 undergraduate apparel design students from six universities in the United States. Instruments used to collect data were the Apparel Spatial Visualization Test (ASVT) (Workman, Caldwell & Kallal, 1999), Strategical Information Processing Style (SIPS) ( Farrell, 2001), and Use of Strategy Questionnaire (USQ) (Gitimu & Workman, 2005). The demographic part of the questionnaire measured level of training.; ANOVA results showed a statistically significant difference in performance on a spatial visualization task between students with more training and those with less training in apparel design. There was no statistically significant difference between students' performance on the ASVT and preferred strategical information processing styles. Descriptive statistics revealed that use of strategy had an influence on performance on the ASVT. Some strategies were superior to others by the fact that they led to a higher percentage of correct responses on the ASVT.; Findings of the study indicated that performance on a spatial visualization task was influenced by use of strategies and training but not by strategical information processing style. One recommendation derived from the study was that, since use of strategies influenced performance on a spatial task, further research could investigate methods of imparting appropriate strategies to students.