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Abstract

Human spatial encoding of three-dimensional navigable space was studied, using a virtual environment simulation. This allowed subjects to become
familiar with a realistic scene by making simulated rotational and translational movements during training. Subsequent tests determined whether subjects could
generalize their recognition ability by identifying novel-perspective views and topographic floor plans of the scene. Results from picture recognition tests showed
that familiar direction views were most easily recognized, although significant generalization to novel views was observed. Topographic floor plans were also
easily identified. In further experiments, novel-view performance diminished when active training was replaced by passive viewing of static images of the scene.
However, the ability to make self-initiated movements, as opposed to watching dynamic movie sequences, had no effect on performance. These results suggest
that representation of navigable space is view dependent and highlight the importance of spatial-temporal continuity during learning.