The Advantages and Disadvantages of Three-dimensional Maps for Focused and Integrative Map Analysis Performance by Novice and Experienced Users.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the following questions:

1. Are 3D pictorial maps projected on the 2D computer display more effective than flat 2D topographic maps (i.e., contour maps) in supporting simple geographic problem solving?

2. Are different task types better supported by traditional 2D contour maps or 3D contour maps?

3. Does the map user's previous experience with contour maps moderate any of the effects of map type and task type interactions?

This study consisted of two parts. Part 1 was a 2x2x2 design, with dimension (2D or 3D), task type (focused or integrative) and elevation requirement (required or not required to perform the task)as the independent variables. Response time and accuracy were the dependent variables. Spatial ability as measured by a paper folding test was treated as a covariate.

2D representations showed a clear advantage only for focused, non-elevation tasks such as "Determine the longitude at point A." 3D representations showed no clear advantage in any task condition. There were interactions between task type and both dimension and elevation. Integrative, elevation questions were clearly more difficult regardless of dimension.

Part 2 of this study was similar to Part 1, except the additional variable of experience with topographic maps was added in order to examine potential interactions with these tasks and topographic representation. Spatial ability proved significant, along with experience and task type. Both experienced and inexperienced participants performed better with the 2D maps across all tasks.

Study results showed that there is probably no single best map type that supports all task requirements equally. Map format, including dimensions, should be decided based on the task to be performed. Additionally, 3D maps should probably not be used for tasks requiring extraction of simple values of latitude and longitude. Finally, if 3D maps are to be used for instruction or problem solving, some training on their interpretation may enhance their effectiveness.