Cognitive Mapping Without Vision: Comparing Wayfinding Performance After Learning From Digital Touchscreen-Based...

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology
• Spatial Cognition

Background:

• Accessible interactive maps are crucial for blind and visually impaired (BVI) individuals.
• Current solutions often lack cost-effectiveness or advanced interactivity.
• Nonvisual sensing methods are key for BVI navigation and learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a novel vibro-audio map (VAM) for BVI users.
• To compare VAM performance against traditional hardcopy tactile maps (HTM).
• To assess VAM's impact on environmental learning, cognitive map development, and wayfinding.

Main Methods:

• A behavioral experiment with eight BVI participants.
• Learning two university floor maps: one with VAM, one with HTM on a touchscreen.
• Environmental transfer test involving route planning and navigation from memory.

Main Results:

• Bayesian analyses showed equivalent performance between VAM and HTM conditions.
• Target localization accuracy and route efficiency were highly similar.
• The VAM demonstrated comparable efficacy to HTM for spatial tasks.

Conclusions:

• The vibro-audio map (VAM) is effective for complex spatial tasks without vision.
• Low-cost, commercially available interfaces can support BVI spatial learning and wayfinding.
• VAM technology opens new possibilities for mobile interactive maps for BVI navigators.