Spatial interference in Mathematics Study (SIMS): Exploring the link between spatial skills and mathematics ability
Introduction:
Hello, we are researchers working in the School of Psychology at University College Dublin. We are recruiting participants for a project investigating the link between spatial skills and mathematics ability.
Lead Researcher: Andrew Roe, MSc Behavioural Neuroscience Student
Supervisor: Dr Katie Gilligan-Lee, Assistant Professor Cognitive Development
​
What is this research about?
Our research investigates the association between spatial skills and mathematics ability. Research shows that strong spatial skills are associated with better math ability, but the underlying mechanisms explaining this association have not been explored. We are investigating these mechanisms using dual-task paradigms. This means doing two tasks at the same time.
​
Why are we doing this research?
There are two main aims of this study. (1)Using a dual-task paradigm (doing two tasks at the same time) we will see whether completing spatial interference tasks causes reductions in math performance. We will compare this to performance in maths in the presence of verbal interference and when there is no second task. (2) We want to create a best-practice model for the development of dual-task paradigms by testing different aspects of our spatial interference measures.
​
Why have you been invited to take part?
Anyone between the ages of 18-30 years who can speak English is invited to participate.
​
How will your data be used?
The data collected will be anonymised and used to answer research questions about the links between spatial skills and mathematics. You will be assigned a unique, random identification number instead of your name. After the 1st June 2025 all documents linking your name and this random ID number will be deleted and prior to this only the lead researcher will have access to these documents. Confidential data will be stored on secure UCD Google-drive servers in password-protected files and on password-protected computers. Records may be reviewed by the Ethics Review Board at UCD. Anonymised data will be shared on a secure online repository called the Open Science Framework. However, you will not be identifiable in this shared data set. No confidential/identifying information will be included in published reports.
​
How will your privacy be protected?
Your identity will be kept confidential. As outlined above, after June 1st 2025, all data will be stored using your random ID number only. No personal data will be shared outside the research team at UCD.
​
What will happen if you decide to take part in this research study?
You will be asked to complete an online consent form and demographics questionnaire (e.g., age, ethnicity, education level). This will take approximately 10 minutes. The researcher will then arrange a time to meet you and the experiment will be carried out in a quiet room supervised by the researcher. You will be asked to complete a series of activities and sometimes you will be asked to complete two tasks simultaneously. These will include computer-based activities including maths questions, games with stop and start rules, and mental rotation tasks. You will also have to do some verbal and spatial activities, e.g., drawing and writing words on a tablet. The entire experiment will take no more than 60 minutes including breaks. Extra breaks can be taken if you want.
​
What are the benefits of taking part in this research study?
Participating in this research will help us to understand how spatial skills relate to mathematics ability, informing future research. This could potentially help us to design interventions to improve mathematics through spatial training. Creating a model for the development of dual task paradigms will also help to inform other behavioural researchers creating their own paradigms.
​
What are the risks of taking part in this research study?
You may feel frustration or fatigue when completing the activities. You are encouraged to do your best and will be reminded that there is no pressure on your performance. It is important that you know that you can take a break or stop taking part at any time.
​
Can you change your mind at any stage and withdraw from the study?
Yes, you can change your mind without giving a reason and can withdraw with no negative consequences. You can request that we withdraw your data up until the 1st of June 2025.
​
How will you find out what happens with this project?
If you want to you can provide an email address and we can email you a summary of the project findings.
​
Contact details for further information
Lead researcher email: andrew.roe@ucdconnect.ie
Supervisor email: katie.gilligan-lee@ucd.ie
​
To sign-up, please click on the following link:
https://ucdpsychology.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6infDTXucT8KrVc