Spatial Models in Impossible Worlds W E Marsh, T Kluss, T Hantel, C Zetzsche |
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Cognitive Neuroinformatics, University of Bremen, Germany
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| A long-standing question exists regarding the nature of mental representations of scenes. Many researchers assume a Euclidean map-like representation, yet some studies point to alternate formats such as graphs or some hybrid model involving graphs and viewpoints. One past study employed an "impossible-worlds" paradigm, with results arguing against the existence of a purely Euclidean representation [Zetzsche et al., 2009, Spatial Vision, 22(5), 409-424]. The results raise complex questions regarding the possibility of different representations being employed depending on the circumstances surrounding scene exploration and recall. A pair of studies was conducted to explore these questions. Results indicate that performance using the locomotion interface does impact shortest-path judgments, but only when the task involves choices of greater difficulty that require a participant to "complete the loop," such that each candidate path must be mentally traversed. Further, results point to possible differences depending on the shape of the scene. These findings spur additional questions regarding the influence of scene characteristics, a user's competence using the interface, and task difficulty on the construction and utilization of mental maps. |
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