An Investigation of Navigation Processes in Human Locomotor Behavior

Abstract

An observational study examined how available ambient lighting affected the time required for high attention, fine navigation when approaching a navigation hazard. Low ambient light levels, representing twilight and night conditions, increase the amount of time required for fine navigation. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed differences in ambient light levels yielded differences in time to contact for three direct contact hazards and two passing hazards. Under all conditions, post hoc analysis showed responses for Night lighting levels were different from Day lighting levels. Specific comparisons between types of navigation hazards were not contemplated, since perceptual and motor requirements varied considerably among hazards.

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