The role of visuo-spatial working memory in map learning: How is VSWM involved in spatial orientation? - Softcover

Coluccia, Emanuele

Softcover

ISBN 10: 3838376986 ISBN 13: 9783838376981

Publisher: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, 2010

Synopsis

The general aim of the present work is to study the relationship between Visuo-Spatial Working Memory and map learning processes. Theoretical models by Baddeley (2001) and by Thorndyke and Hayes-Roth (1982) were used as frameworks for Working Memory and Spatial Knowledge respectively. Possible links between the two models are discussed. In order to investigate the role of Working Memory in map learning, the methodology of the dual task is applied in four experiments. While learning a map, participants were asked either to perform a secondary task or not (control condition). After the map learning phase, they were asked to solve three different "map-knowledge" tasks: Landmark Positioning, Pointing, and Route-Finding. Map learning was contrasted with a verbal learning task and two different types of visuospatial interference secondary tasks (4-keys and 9-keys spatial tapping) were contrasted with a verbal interference secondary task (articulatory suppression). Overall results showed how some aspects of Visuospatial Working Memory are involved in map learning processes, depending on which aspect of Spatial Knowledge is considered.

About this title

About the Author

Emanuele Coluccia is a lecturer of psychology (2008) at the University Suor Orsola Benincasa in Naples. He is author of different publications on international journals of cognitive psychology. His research interests are in spatial orientation abilities, Visuo-Spatial Working Memory, Flash-Bulb-Memories, and gender differences.

Edition details

• Publisher: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 3838376986
• ISBN 13: 9783838376981
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 124