Navegação espacial com recurso à imagética num espaço virtual com EEG

Abstract

The imagery refers to the mental ability to create, manipulate, and experience mental
images. These images can be visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, or olfactory, and are formed
within the individual’s mind without the presence of corresponding sensory stimuli. Previous
studies not only demonstrate the importance of employing imagery in the process of spatial
navigation but also highlight the use of audible clues as facilitators of spatial navigation
performance. To address this, a task supported by virtual reality and electroencephalography
was designed with the aim of studying spatial navigation without relying on vision and using
imagery as a navigation enhancer. Additionally, the study investigated the rhythm of brain
waves associated with imagery during spatial navigation in 20 individuals. Metrics related to
time, distances, touches, and data from an imagery questionnaire and neuropsychological tests
were collected. The results did not show that the absence of sensory references (visual, audible,
tactile, or olfactory) during spatial navigation, hinders the process of creating and retrieving
memories but raised new questions about the relationship between imagery and spatial
navigation. These findings will enable further studies to explore the use of imagery in both
visual and visually impaired individuals and how sensory references are more efficient in the
process of spatial navigation.
Keywords: Spatial Navigation, Soundspace, Imagery, Virtual Reality, EEG

Date of Award	2024
Original language	Portuguese
Supervisor	JORGE ALEXANDRE GASPAR OLIVEIRA (Supervisor)