Cognitive map formation in the blind is enhanced by three-dimensional tactile information

Abstract

AbstractFor blind individuals, tactile maps are useful tools to form cognitive maps through touch. However, they still experience challenges in cognitive map formation and independent navigation. Three-dimensional (3D) tactile information is thus increasingly being considered to convey enriched spatial information, but it remains unclear if it can facilitatecognitive map formationcompared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) tactile information. Consequently, the present study investigated the impact of the type of sensory input (tactile vs. visual) oncognitive map formation. To do so, early blind (EB, n = 13), late blind (LB, n = 12), and sighted (SC, n = 14) participants were tasked to learn the layouts of mazes produced with different sensory information (visual vs. tactile 2D vs. tactile 3D) and to infer routes from memory. Results show that EB only manifested stronger cognitive map formation with 3D mazes. LB performed equally well with 2D and 3D mazes, and SC manifested equivalent cognitive map formation with visual and 3D tactile mazes. 3D tactile maps therefore have the potential to improve spatial learning for EB and newly blind individuals through a reduction of cognitive overload. Installation of 3D tactile maps in public spaces should be considered to promote universal accessibility and reduce blind individuals’ wayfinding deficits related to the inaccessibility of spatial information through non-visual means.