Accession Number:

ADA326241

Title:

Spatial Frameworks for Perceived Environments.

Descriptive Note:

Final technical rept. 1 May 94-28 Feb 97,

Corporate Author:

NORTHEASTERN UNIV BOSTON MA

Personal Author(s):

• Bryant, David J.

Report Date:

1997-02-17

Pagination or Media Count:

46.0

Abstract:

Research examined mental representation of spatial information. Spatial frameworks are based on an egocentric reference frame, and intrinsic computation on an object centered frame. Research documented the use of spatial frameworks in memory for observed and modeled scenes, but intrinsic computation for memory of diagrams. Intrinsic computation was also used in perception of models and diagrams. Reference frame is under strategic control instructions to use one or the other guides the representation of diagrams and models. Spontaneous use of spatial frameworks is determined by the directness with which information about all three spatial dimensions are conveyed. Related experiments revealed that differences in accessibility result from the relative salience of body axes. Laterality and handedness do not affect the accessibility of spatial locations. Additional research documented the use of a Euclidean metric for representing haptically explored space and the effortful rather than automatic rehearsal of visual spatial location. The rehearsal process depends critically on eye movements between locations. New projects have begun to explore pattern perception and the metric structure underlying spatial concepts.

Descriptors:

• *VISUAL PERCEPTION
• *AWARENESS
• *SPACE PERCEPTION
• SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION
• MEMORY(PSYCHOLOGY)
• OBSERVATION
• PATTERN RECOGNITION
• MENTAL ABILITY
• PERCEPTION(PSYCHOLOGY)
• PHYSIOLOGICAL DISORIENTATION
• VISUAL ACUITY
• EYE MOVEMENTS
• POSITIONING REACTIONS
• PERIPHERAL VISION

Subject Categories:

• Psychology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE