Gender Difference in Spatial Ability

Abstract

The present study investigated gender differences in spatial ability using both standardized assessment and real-life perceptual tasks. A total of 70 university students (35 males and 35 females) were assessed using the Spatial Subtest of the Multidimensional Aptitude Battery-II (MAB-II) and two real-world size estimation tasks involving vertical and horizontal spatial perception. Results revealed a statistically significant gender difference in the MAB-II spatial scores, with males outperforming females. However, in the real-life perceptual tasks, the results were mixed. Females showed significantly better performance in horizontal size perception and slightly better, though not statistically significant, accuracy in vertical size perception. These findings suggest that while males may have an advantage in abstract spatial reasoning, females may demonstrate superior spatial perception in ecologically valid, real-world contexts. The study highlights the multifaceted nature of spatial ability and underscores the importance of using diverse measurement approaches. Educational implications and the need for gender-sensitive training programs in spatial skill development are discussed.