When teachers think about introducing coding to students, the first ideas that come to mind are often either lines of text-based code on a screen or block-based programming interfaces. But one of the most important skills students can develop, the skill that truly sets them up for success not just in introductory coding but in advanced computer science, has little to do with the code’s syntax. It’s spatial reasoning. Recent research across STEM fields underscores how crucial this ability is, making it clear that spatial reasoning is not just a “nice to have” but a “must have” for any future-ready learner.

How Does Spatial Reasoning Help Students Learn Computer Science?

Spatial reasoning involves the ability to visualize, manipulate, and reason about objects in two- or three-dimensional space¹. It’s the same skill we use to interpret maps, sketch diagrams, or mentally rotate and manipulate shapes. A recent theory in computer science education, known as spatial encoding strategy theory, suggests that spatial training enhances STEM performance². By presenting information in a spatial-like layout (like a map or a floor plan), these representations make relationships more clear and memorable. Educational research studies have consistently shown that strong spatial abilities correlate with stronger performance in STEM subjects, especially computer science and engineering³. This is partly because coding, whether done through blocks or text, requires students to mentally simulate the flow of data, the orientation of a robot, and the structure of a program’s logic¹.

in all the specific studies of spatial skills in CS to date—and even in broader STEM—we observe that spatial skills correlate with success in various measures of computing. Beyond initial learning, we have also seen that spatial skills have long-term benefits for CS students and practitioners, affecting lifelong abilities and skills.

Spatial Reasoning Is Not Fixed—It Can Be Improved

While some students may seem to be “naturally” good at visualizing objects in space, research shows that spatial reasoning skills can be developed with intentional teaching strategies. In other words, spatial skills aren’t locked in at birth, they can be improved, just like learning a language or playing a musical instrument. Just because a student struggles with mentally rotating shapes at first doesn’t mean they always will. With the right practice and exposure, students can make dramatic gains in their spatial abilities.

One of the most effective ways to boost spatial reasoning is through hands-on, physical activities. When students are actively building, moving, or rearranging objects in the real world, they’re flexing their spatial “muscles” in a tangible way. This is why the VEX computer science continuum is so powerful for developing spatial skills.

Why VEX Robotics Is So Effective for Teaching Spatial Reasoning

• Transform 2D and 3D representations into physical builds through visual-motor integration.
• Implement step functions in VEXcode to plan sequential robot movements.
• Position robots strategically in physical space for optimal performance.
• Design spatial navigation algorithms for autonomous operation.
• Configure sensors to help robots understand their environment.

These aren't just coding exercises. They're a form of 3D problem-solving that invites students to visualize and plan movement in space. By combining building and coding together, students are improving their spatial reasoning skills.

When it comes to teaching spatial reasoning, there’s no substitute for physical manipulation. Virtual simulations and digital exercises can be helpful, but nothing beats the authenticity of holding a robot in your hand, writing the pseudocode, and watching it operate in the real world. This tangible interaction with physical robots requires and reinforces spatial thinking in a way that is both engaging and authentic.

Conclusion

Spatial reasoning is a foundational skill that learners must have to be successful in STEM and the entire spectrum of computer science, whether they're creating simple programs or designing cutting-edge innovations. This crucial skill is highly trainable, and the most effective way to strengthen it is by giving students real, hands-on experiences that encourage them to visualize, construct, and program in three-dimensional space.