Implementing a web-based measurement of 3d understanding

Abstract

This paper outlines the conversion of a psychometric test to a web-based study. The test measures understanding of three-dimensional (3D) concepts as it applies to technical drawing. We describe the instrument in terms of its subtests and examine implementation and data collection issues. Comments are provided about technical, experimental design, participation and recruitment matters. We report comparisons of reliability and validity measures against a parallel laboratory-based study. Advantages and disadvantages of web-based studies are summarized and the relevance of the instrument to industry is addressed along with considerations for future developments.