Visual map and instruction-based bicycle navigation: a comparison of effects on behaviour

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Navigation Science
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Traditional paper maps present challenges for cyclists.
• Electronic navigation devices offer potential improvements for cycling navigation.
• Understanding the impact of spatial skills on navigation performance is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare navigation performance and user preference between paper maps, electronic moving maps, and turn-by-turn (TT) guidance systems.
• To investigate the relationship between spatial skills and navigation performance across different device types.
• To identify optimal navigation strategies for cyclists of varying spatial abilities.

Main Methods:

• Cyclists navigated using a paper map, a smartphone moving map, and auditory/visual TT guidance.
• Navigation performance was assessed, and user preferences were recorded.
• The role of spatial skills in navigation was analyzed in relation to device type.

Main Results:

• Spatial skills correlated with performance on paper and electronic maps, but not TT guidance.
• Cyclists spent 25% of navigation time fixated on visual displays.
• Electronic devices, particularly TT guidance, were preferred over paper maps due to lower mental effort.

Conclusions:

• Turn-by-turn guidance is beneficial for all cyclists, especially those with lower spatial skills.
• Electronic navigation devices, especially TT systems, are preferred by cyclists.
• Future navigation device development should prioritize TT information for universal usability.