Encoding of Multiple Map Orientations

Studies of map-learning have suggested that viewing maps from several orientations results in orientation independent encoding. The present investigation examined this claim. Three groups of participants were presented with a map from one orientation, or four orientations, or with the map constantly rotating. Participants' spatial knowledge was then assessed in a pointing task. Response latencies were fastest following presentations of the map from a single orientation. Contrary to earlier results, multiple views led to orientation dependent encoding when account was taken of participants'preferred map orientations. The findings are consistent with the notion that similar mental representations are acquired following single and multiple map views.