Visual and non-visual processing in spatial perception and spatial navigation

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I have been interested in how humans brain process visual motion information and how vision is used in movement control.  In particular I am exploring the specific mechanisms that underlie motion perception, including both object motion (e.g., an oncoming car), and the motion of the visual environment experienced as a result of the observer's self-motion (e.g., walking and driving).  In order to conduct my behavioural research, I have developed a state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) technology system.  What makes this approach revolutionary is that VR allows for the real-time manipulation of dynamic visual environments - something that is practically impossible to achieve in a real world scenario.  This research program has not only allowed me to explore fundamental perceptual principles underlying visuomotor control, but it can also be employed in the design of better standardized tests and training/rehabilitation for drivers/pilots and the design of car, road sign and driving/flight simulators.     Visual information is not the only source of information received when one navigates in an environment.  I have explored how visual and nonvisual (proprioceptive and vestibular) information is integrated during self-motion.  One project that I have developed involves creating novel, sensory conflict testing paradigms in which information from vision and body senses are simultaneously available during locomotion, yet specify different magnitudes of movement (e.g., simulating the sensory information experienced while walking on moving airport sidewalk). This type of experimental design allows me to assess the role of each sensory cue individually and to gain a better understanding of how these cues interact with each other.   In another project, I have also been able to manipulate the degree with which participants actively engage in movement during "virtual" navigation as a way of studying exactly how human navigators form a "cognitive map" and find their way around. This work has provided new insight to the nature of spatial memory by identifying the critical components of spatial learning that result in different types of spatial representations.