The Relationship Between Utilization of Computer Games and Spatial Abilities Among High School Students

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the relationship between computer game use and spatial abilities among high school students. The sample consisted of 300 high school male students selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. Data gathering tools consisted of a researcher made questionnaire (to collect information on computer game usage) and the Newton and Bristol spatial ability questionnaire with reliability value of .85. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results showed that there was a meaningful relationship between the use of computer games and spatial ability (r = .59 and p = 00.00), there was a meaningful relationship between the use of computer games and the spatial perceived ability (r = .60 and p = .00), there was a meaningful relationship between the use of computer games and mental rotation ability (r = .48 and p = .00) and there was a meaningful relationship between computer game use and spatial visualization ability (r = .48 and p = .00). In general, the findings showed there was a positive and a significant relationship between the use of computer games and spatial abilities in students.