ABSTRACT
In this chapter, fractal geometry, digital video technology and research regarding spatial cognition are combined to create new methods for describing mental models. Pointing behaviours recorded on videotape, and digitised sketch maps, provide general purpose means to derive quantitative measures for the study of cognitive maps. Fractal dimension (D) estimates of cognitive maps were computed to study individual differences, and the dynamic properties of mental models.
Estimates of D for cognitive maps were found to be sensitive to an apparent asymmetry of spatial processes, but to exhibit low correlations with tests of personality and intelligence. Results suggest that the type of “imagination” used in cognitive maps may not be assessed effectively by the principal factors common to psychometric measures of cognition.
