Investigation of Cognitive Mapping Abilities of Persons with Visual Impairment

Abstract

Purpose: Cognitive mapping of spaces is vital to the progress of well-organized orientation and mobility skills. Mostly the information required for cognitive mapping is acquired through the sense of vision. Persons with visual impairment lack in this critical information, and in consequence, they face difficulties in mapping as well as navigating new spaces. This study was aimed to investigate the cognitive mapping abilities of persons with visual impairment for the purpose of improvement in their independent movement. Design/Methodology/Approach: The population of this quantitative study comprised persons with visual impairment residing in district Lahore, Pakistan. The convenient sampling technique was used for taking the sample of 30 persons having visual impairment. A self-developed questionnaire (Cronbach Alpha: 0.78) consisting of 36 items on five-point Likert scale (strongly agree to strongly disagree) was used to gather data through online mode. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data. Findings: The findings of the study revealed that the persons with visual impairment used language audition and haptics to get a direct or indirect awareness of their physical environment. The usage of assistive devices play an important role in their lives. Implications/Originality/Value: The study suggested the strong need to assess the cognitive mapping abilities of persons with visual impairment through an increased sample and experimentation to improve their quality of life by increasing mobility and independence.