Visual Perception
What is Visual Scanning?
Visual scanning is the process of actively searching and analysing the visual environment by moving the eyes to gather information. It involves systematically shifting focus across different parts of a scene or area to detect relevant stimuli or objects.
How does solving a Jigsaw puzzle enhance the ability of Visual scanning?
Visual scanning in the context of solving a jigsaw puzzle refers to the process of systematically and continuously moving your eyes across the puzzle pieces to search for specific features. It involves actively scanning for colours, shapes, patterns, and edges that help identify where individual pieces fit within the overall image.
When solving a jigsaw puzzle, visual scanning ability is enhanced, as the puzzler performs the following tasks:
- Pattern Recognition: When the puzzler scans the pieces for distinct visual features like colours, lines, or textures that match a section of the puzzle.
- Shape Matching: When the puzzler looks for the shapes of puzzle pieces and how their edges may fit with the adjacent pieces.
- Edge Finding: Initially, puzzler may scan for straight-edged pieces to form the border of the puzzle.
- Comparing and Testing: The puzzler compares different pieces visually, mentally tests how they might fit together before physically attempting to place them.
Effective visual scanning requires focus, attention to detail, and the ability to hold multiple visual features in mind while examining many puzzle pieces at once. It’s a fundamental cognitive skill used in puzzle-solving which subsequently contributes to improving spatial reasoning and memory.