Vibrotactile navigation systems can provide drivers with directional information while reducing annoyancefrom a voice that interrupts on-going music and conversations. However, little is currently knownregarding the working memory processes involved in utilizing vibrotactile navigation. Prior research hasdemonstrated that individuals differ in their sense of direction and ability to navigate and the workingmemory resources used to carry out the navigation task. Recent research has shown that vibrotactile cuescan be used effectively to facilitate navigation while potentially reducing workload. The aim of this studyis to examine impact of vibrotactile navigation systems on working memory. Specifically, the aim is toexamine how they may differentially impact individuals based upon their sense of direction. It is predictedthat the location based information provided by the vibrotactile navigation system may facilitateperformance among individuals with a poor sense of direction – because it is not expected to rely on theirverbal working memory. Conversely, vibrotactile systems are expected to hinder the performance ofindividuals with a good sense of direction since they may overload the visuospatial working memoryprocesses. The results of this research will help in better understanding the differences between theseindividuals and help improve navigation system design to better navigational performance.
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