| Abstract: | In 2 experiments using a large-scale space and a 3rd using a model of that space, 85 3-, 4-, and 5-yr-olds were trained to find a trinket either to their right or left. The Ss' position in the space was then changed so that their view of the space was reversed. When asked to find the trinket again, Ss' choice of left or right indicated whether they had coordinated the 2 views of the space. While the 5-yr-olds were able to coordinate the views in the large-scale space without landmarks, the 3- and 4-yr-olds did better with landmarks and with the model space. Reminding the 3- and 4-yr-olds that they had changed position enhanced the performance of the 4-yr-olds but not the 3-yr-olds. Data indicate that the ability to coordinate perspectives in large-scale space may be present but not used spontaneously during a transitional stage. Discrepancies between behavior with the 2 types of space are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
