An affordance and social learning research framework for mental map construction: A thematic analysis of navigational learning processes
Abstract
In this study, the researcher examined how a critical facet of Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986), abstract modeling, works with Affordances Theory (Norman, 2002) to explain how people use devices in navigating unfamiliar situations. Informed by these theories and the resulting mental maps that people create in their minds to make sense of an unfamiliar situation, this study uses the Discovery Park tour, a multimedia experience that pairs a mobile device with the exploration of a set of physical locations. Subjects were given a device, either an iPad, iPhone, or brochure, each containing information about the Discovery Park tour, and used those materials to navigate the tour. Qualitative research methods were used, specifically, the think-aloud method, as subjects were given a device and took the tour with the researcher. As subjects took the tour, the researcher recorded the audio of each transcript. Thematic analysis was conducted to understand how the data explained participants' experiences with the tour. Several key themes resulted: notably, that participants made sense of their device and tour by reducing uncertainties they encountered and drawing upon familiarities; as well as seeking out landmarks that served to help in the construction of mental maps. Furthermore, individual differences in displayed attitude affected overall self-efficacy, which was found to impact the success or failure of being able to successfully navigate the experience.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Matei, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Communication|Cognitive psychology
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