V.7.2. Development of body schema
Based on the analysis of Farmosi’s (2011) literature, the development of body schema:
The occurring problem in the development of spatial orientation skills is due to the uncertain body schema. The problem can be recognized that the student is unable to navigate his own body, has no clear picture of it.
The problems facing these students are for example, that they are unable to cross their legs, arch their back, link their legs and arms etc.
The first step in the development of body schema could be self-observation. These exercises can be started from an early age. Many activities involving play can be done in front of a mirror. For example, mimicking various movements (movements of animals), natural phenomena (wind-blown willow branches), and imitating work activities.
During the development of spatial skills, the role of eye sight takes a back seat. The actual spatial orientation begins for example, when one can reach the door or the window or perform any task in a dark room (with local knowledge) without a problem. This may be to turn on a lamp. Overall, we can say that if this skill is developed, we can find the switch without a problem but we have to know the location of the objects around us through the evocation of memory.
To understand this skill, the example of one of my favourite sports must be mentioned. The same process happens when the Formula 1 race car driver competes a high speed circuit and in accordance with the requirements (pass, drive with a millimeter apart etc.) fulfills his task. The competitors drive with millimeter precision in an optimal arc in almost every turn and feel the circuit. At this speed the senses have essentially only feedback functions. The competitor continuously detects his spatial position, movement and surroundings.
The typical stage of development is until 7-16 years. The initial phase is moderate between 7-16 years and intense between 10-13 years. Subsequently, no improvements can be detected. After puberty, girls show a slight regressive trend (decreasing, developing backward) which is related to the technical implementation of throwing. At this time the difference between genders is more pronounced.
The spatial orientation can be important in several areas. It is important in body exercises, sports games i.eg. martial arts, and can be important in everyday life. For example, assessing direction and distances, this may be particularly important in driving a car. In addition, we can perceive the relationship between spatial and temporal elements.