Abstract
Recent research on spatial language has progressed along two largely separate fronts. First, there has been an effort to examine the role of attention within spatial language, focusing primarily on abstract geometric representations of objects. Second, there have been numerous demonstrations that spatial language is influenced by the intended function of objects as well as their geometry, but the mechanism by which this occurs has been left largely unspecified. We bring together these two lines of inquiry, and argue that attention may integrate geometric and functional information. Specifically, we argue that preferential attention to the functional parts of objects may explain effects of object function on the interpretation of spatial terms. We show this empirically and computationally, using an attentional model of spatial language.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
