The relation between storytelling, spatial ability and its gender gap: a literature review

Spatial ability is a good predictor of STEMM career, but how can it be developed in early childhood? The role of storytelling in early education has been found to be a good example of thorough integrated learning, also in relation to spatial thinking. The aim of this literature review is to identify the impact that this methodology has on spatial thinking development in relation to mathematics content. First, the spatial ability characteristics are defined, and the emerging sex differences identified. Then the narrative approach is introduced both in general terms and in an early education context by considering in particular geometry storybooks. Finally, concurrent development of literacy skills through storytelling are also discussed.