The influences of age, sex and mode of transportation on student cognitive maps : an honors thesis [(HONRS 499)]
Authors
Advisor
Issue Date
Keyword
Degree
Department
Other Identifiers
CardCat URL
Abstract
This research project studies the relationships between age, sex and driving status of subjects and characteristics of their cognitive maps, as drawn on a blank sheet of paper. Eight groups of subjects were formed using non-residents of the city specified in the study, Muncie, Indiana. The participant groups were categorized for the mapping task using a 2x2x2 matrix of independent variables: cellege freshman/sophomore, male/female, with car/without car.Following verbal instructions, each subject gave informed consent. All subjects were then given paper and asked to draw a maps of the Muncie/Ball State University area. A 10 minute time limit was imposed. The participants filled out an identification questionnaire specifying category variables before turning in their finished maps.The drawings were analyzed using descriptive correlation methods, analysis of variance and chi-square analysis in a between groups design. The results supported the expectation that map characteristics would vary significantly relative to the independent variables. The ANOVAs showed significant effects on the number of major and minor streets; the number of university buildings, residences, natural and man-made landmarks, and scramble lights labelled. The chi-square results showed significant effects on the use of direction labels, the inclusion of the north and central parts of campus, the omission of east off-campus areas, and the center location.