The contribution of field independence in virtual spatial updating

Abstract Field independence (FI) is the extent to which a person perceives part of field as discrete from surrounding rather than embedded in field. Several studies proposed that it represents cognitive style relatively stable individuals’ predisposition towards information processing. This study investigated effects Independence/Field Dependence (FI/FD) on topographic memory virtual environment. Seventy-nine college students completed Embedded Figure Test measure FI/FD and learned two paths VR-Walking Corsi apparatus. After learning phase, participants had reproduce familiar perspective or unfamiliar perspectives. Data showed FI predicted ability path perspectives, suggesting different impact angle degree. Results are discussed considering facilitation body axes references increasing difficulty due maintaining online perspectives with higher degrees increase visuo-spatial working load. These results support idea predicts human navigation.