Recent research has delved into the fascinating topic of wayfinding and navigation, exploring how traditional cultures can offer valuable insights into these cognitive processes. Various studies have examined the wayfinding culture of groups such as the Evenki reindeer herders and hunters, highlighting the significance of mental maps, practical mastery, and environmental experience in their navigation skills. The findings shed light on the importance of cultural practices and environmental knowledge in shaping individuals’ abilities to navigate across different terrains (Velasco & Spiers, 2024; Velasco & Gleizer, 2023).
Moreover, the concept of an “ecological brain” has been proposed to reframe the study of human behavior and cognition, emphasizing the interconnectedness between the brain, body, and environment. This perspective challenges traditional views of cognition as a solely internal process, suggesting that environmental factors play a crucial role in shaping our cognitive abilities. Research on navigational experience among tropical forager-farmer populations further supports this idea, demonstrating how individuals’ spatial abilities can be preserved into old age through ongoing engagement with their surroundings (Vigliocco et al., 2023; Davis et al., 2023).
Additionally, studies have explored how childhood experiences and cultural practices can impact gender differences in spatial abilities. Findings indicate that early navigation experience and exposure to diverse environments can reduce these disparities, highlighting the role of environmental factors in shaping cognitive development. Cultural changes, such as shifts in mobility patterns among pastoralist-forager children, have also been shown to influence spatial abilities, underscoring the dynamic interaction between culture, environment, and cognitive skills (Schug et al., 2022; Davis et al., 2021).
Furthermore, the impact of technological advancements on spatial cognition has been investigated, revealing potential drawbacks of relying heavily on GPS devices. Research suggests that habitual use of GPS may negatively affect spatial memory during self-guided navigation, indicating a potential trade-off between convenience and cognitive performance. These findings raise important questions about the implications of technology on our cognitive processes and the importance of maintaining navigational skills through manual wayfinding (Dahmani & Bohbot, 2020).
Moreover, the influence of home environment structure on navigation preference and performance has been examined in cross-cultural studies comparing regions in Veneto, Italy, and Utah, USA. The results suggest that differences in the physical layout of home environments can impact individuals’ navigational abilities and strategies. This research highlights the importance of considering environmental factors, such as spatial layout and complexity, in understanding how individuals navigate and orient themselves in different settings (Barhorst-Cates et al., 2021).
In conclusion, the intersection of culture, environment, and cognition plays a significant role in shaping individuals’ wayfinding abilities and spatial cognition. By studying traditional cultures, exploring the impact of childhood experiences, and considering the effects of technological advancements, researchers have uncovered valuable insights into the complex interplay between our surroundings and cognitive processes. These findings not only deepen our understanding of navigation and spatial abilities but also provide practical implications for fostering cognitive development and preserving essential skills in an increasingly technology-driven world.
