Spatial Memory in Hypertext Information Retrieval

The spatial metaphor of hypertext has been used by researchers both to help users understand the system and as a model to study the cognitive processes involved in hypertext interaction [3]. However, in the second case, there is not enough empirical evidence supporting that spatial representations and spatial processing are used to perform hypertext task as Information Retrieval (IR). The experiment presented in this contribution used the dual task paradigm to analyse the involvement of the visuoesptial sketchpad and the phonological loop of Working Memory in IR task. In addition, the interface format (graphical or textual) and the length of path to find a target were manipulated. Results showed that only the spatial concurrent task was impaired when performed together with the IR. Replicating our previous research, users found fewer targets, were slower and got more disoriented in graphical interfaces and long paths. However, these variables did not interact with the concurrency of spatial and verbal tasks. These findings support the involvement of the working memory's sketchpad during the searching of information in hypertext. We discuss the implication of these findings for the spatial metaphor of hypertext and for the hypertext design.