Biomaterial Database

Computerized information retrieval: individual differences in the use of spatial vs nonspatial navigational information. 1995

S J Westerman

Psychology Division, University of Aston.

Although a number of experiments have demonstrated the importance of spatial ability as a predictor of computer-based performance, there is little evidence relating to the mechanics of this association or the implications for interface design. Two experiments on the relative importance of spatial and nonspatial semantic information within the context of computerized information retrieval are described. The first experiment indicated that spatial ability did not interact with the spatial information content of the computer interface. The second experiment indicated that the effects of spatial ability are attenuated when additional nonspatial semantic information is provided.

UI	MeSH Term	Description	Entries
D007206	Individuality	Those psychological characteristics which differentiate individuals from one another.	Individual Differences,Difference, Individual,Differences, Individual,Individual Difference
D008297	Male		Males
D008838	Microcomputers	Small computers using LSI (large-scale integration) microprocessor chips as the CPU (central processing unit) and semiconductor memories for compact, inexpensive storage of program instructions and data. They are smaller and less expensive than minicomputers and are usually built into a dedicated system where they are optimized for a particular application. "Microprocessor" may refer to just the CPU or the entire microcomputer.	Computers, Personal,Microprocessors,Computer, Personal,Microcomputer,Microprocessor,Personal Computer,Personal Computers
D011340	Problem Solving	A learning situation involving more than one alternative from which a selection is made in order to attain a specific goal.
D003197	Computer Literacy	Familiarity and comfort in using computers efficiently.	Computer Literacies,Literacies, Computer,Literacy, Computer
D005260	Female		Females
D006801	Humans	Members of the species Homo sapiens.	Homo sapiens,Man (Taxonomy),Human,Man, Modern,Modern Man
D000328	Adult	A person having attained full growth or maturity. Adults are of 19 through 44 years of age. For a person between 19 and 24 years of age, YOUNG ADULT is available.	Adults
D001076	Aptitude	The ability to acquire general or special types of knowledge or skill.	Ability,Talent,Abilities,Aptitudes,Talents
D012660	Semantics	The relationships between symbols and their meanings.	Semantic