Visualization. The Mental Rotations Test (Vandenberg & Kuse, 1978) and
the Paper Folding Test (from the Kit of Factor-Referenced Cognitive Tests by
Ekstrom et al., 1976) measured the ability to use spatial imagery in order to perform
complex spatial transformations. Spatial visualization is a specific type of ability that
involves the sequential transformation of a spatial form to match it with an original
spatial form (Carroll, 1993; Ekstrom et al.). In the case of either three-dimensional or
two-dimensional test items, the process often involves the necessity of rotating the
item one or more times. Based upon this definition, Carroll identified both mental
rotation and paper folding tests as appropriate measures to assess spatial
visualization. In addition, both tests reflect similar processes to solution that may be
executed when solving geometric problems such as Problem A (the cube, a threedimensional
figure) and Problem B (the right-angled triangle, a two-dimensional
figure) from the National Assessment of Educational Progress’ (NAEP; 2006)
standardized item pool (see p. 2).