The Correlation between the Ability to Read and Manually Reproduce a 3D Image: Some Implications for 3D Information Visualisation

Most of us can recognize common 3D objects depicted in drawings, photographs and computer graphics. But, few of us are able to manually reproduce them in a convincing manner. This paper discusses a psychology experiment that investigates the variability in individual drawing ability and the ability to read 3D images. Currently, Shepard and Metzlerpsilas Mental Rotation Test is the most popular test for spatial ability. This paper discusses the need to further investigate the correlation of 3D drawing ability and recognition and its potential effect on the legibility of the 3D information visualization application. This paper reports ongoing research in this field.