Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Cognitive Science Society

Sketching is often a helpful strategy for solving science problems. We examined the role of visuo-spatial working memoryand sketching in predicting science problem solving accuracy. Sketches were coded for quality based on whether theyincluded elements and relationships in the sketches. Regression analyses were done regressing working memory onto science problem solving. A mediation analysis was also conducted to determine whether sketch quality mediated therelationship between working memory and science accuracy. Findings are discussed in terms off implications for educationand classroom instruction.