Learning a new sense by sensory augmentation

Abstract

Theories of embodied cognition propose that mastery of the lawful relations (sensorimotor contingencies) of sensory signals and own actions in the world shape perception. Thus, we hypothesize that training a new sensorimotor contingency will lead to changes in the activation and interaction of sensorimotor systems with concomitant changes in perception. We trained participants for seven weeks with a sensory augmentation device that gave orientation information about the magnetic north via vibrotactile stimulation on the waist. Training with the feelSpace belt lead to (1) changes in sleep architecture, compatible with the consolidation of procedural learning and increased sensorimotor processing and motor programming, (2) differential activation in sensory and higher motor centers and brain areas involved in navigation, (3) changes of perception of space and belt perception and to an increased trust in navigational ability. Thus, our data support the hypothesis that new sensorimotor contingencies can be learned through sensory augmentation.