A Computer Vision and Maps Aided Tool for Campus Navigation
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Abstract
Current study abroad trips rely on students utilizing GPS directions and digital maps for navigation. While GPS-based navigation may be more straightforward and easier for some to use than traditional paper maps, studies have shown that GPS-based navigation may be associated with disengagement with the environment, hindering the development of spatial knowledge and development of a mental representation or cognitive map of the area. If one of the outcomes of a study abroad trip is not only to navigate to the location, but also to learn about important features such as urban configurations and architectural style, then there needs to be a better solution than students only following GPS directions. This research introduces one such explored solution being a new feature within wayfinding mobile applications that emphasizes engagement with landmarks during navigation. This feature, powered by computer vision, was integrated into a newly developed wayfinding mobile application, and allows one to take pictures of various Texas A&M University buildings and retrieve information about them. Following the development of the mobile application, a user study was conducted to determine the effects of the presence or absence of this building recognition feature and GPS-based navigation on spatial cognition and cognitive mapping performance. Additionally, the study explores the wayfinding accuracy performance of the building recognition feature and GPS-based navigation compared with traditional paper maps. This paper includes preliminary results where it was found that groups without GPS-based navigation took longer routes to find destinations than those with GPS-based navigation. It was also found that cognitive mapping performance improved for all participants when identifying destination buildings. Final data collection and analysis is planned for April 2022.
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Wayfinding, GPS, Cognitive Maps, Spatial Cognition, Mobile, Computer Vision, Environmental Psychology, Computer Science