Association between self-reported and performance-based navigational ability using internet-based remote spatial memory assessment

ABSTRACT

Traditionally, studies of spatial memory tend to utilise table-top tasks that focus on new spatial learning, however these in-lab procedures may not be reflective of real world spatial memory or navigation. This study investigated the relationship between self-rated navigation abilities and performance on a naturalistic Internet-based assessment of spatial memory for environments learned long ago. Results indicated that self-rated navigation ability was significantly associated with most of the remote spatial memory metrics. Familiarity with the geographical area tested, as well as frequency of visits, significantly predicted performance on the remote spatial memory measures. These results support the use of internet testing for performance-based navigation abilities in the assessment of remote spatial memory.

KEYWORDS:

• Spatial memory
• remote spatial memory
• navigation
• internet testing
• memory

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by grants to BL from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (MOP 62963). We would also like to thank Adam Hampshire, who programmed the Vector Mapping task for this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Dhawal Selarka http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0420-2681

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by grants to BL from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research [grant number MOP 62963].