Human spatial learning strategies in wormhole virtual environments

ABSTRACT Humans can learn spatial information through navigation in the environment. The nature of these spatial representations is constantly debated, including whether they conform to Euclidean geometry. The present study examined the types of Euclidean representations people may form while learning virtual wormhole mazes. Participants explored Euclidean or non-Euclidean tunnel mazes and drew maps of the landmark layout on a 2D canvas. The results showed that people have different, consistent strategies, some mainly preserving distance information while others mainly preserving turning angles. The straightness of the segments was mostly preserved. These results suggest that representations of non-Euclidean space may be highly variable across individuals, and possible Euclidean solutions need to be carefully examined before testing Euclidean vs alternative models.