Learning-oriented vehicle navigation systems

Abstract

Vehicle navigation systems aim to reduce the mental workload for drivers by automating elements of the driving task. Concern has been raised, however, that their long-term use may cause unforeseen problems, including suppressing cognitive map development.A driving simulator study was conducted to discover if this effect could be ameliorated by the use of a novel, learning-oriented, navigation system. The user-interface of this system provided a range of additional features including landmarks, compass bearings and previously driven routes within the visual and auditory guidance instructions.It was found that the users of the learning-oriented system displayed better memory for driven routes, when compared with those using a basic guidance system. It is also suggested that they had developed a better cognitive map of the area. Glance analysis demonstrated that the learning-oriented system was no more visually demanding than the basic system.