Training Understanding of Relative Motion: I. An Experimental Evaluation of Spatial Reference Systems Used in the Solution of Naval Maneuvering Problems

摘要

Three groups of college students were trained to solve relative motion problems on the maneuvering board. The only difference between the training given to each group was the spatial reference system taught for change of station problems. One group used a system based on placing the guide ship of the formation in the center of the board, another placed their own ship in the center, while the third group alternated between the first two systems. The findings of this study do not encourage the teaching of both systems simultaneously. High aptitude college students did solve problems faster using guide ship in the center, apparently because less confusing mechanics are involved. However, there is no assurance that with further practice, this difference would not disappear. A general conclusion is that teaching subjects to solve maneuvering problems presented in written form by methods which approximate those in current use does not produce any evidence that real understanding is being achieved.