MENTAL MAPPING IN PASIR RIS

Abstract

A large part of our lives is spent in getting to know places around us. The key to spatial learning is cognitive mapping. It allows us to generate images of places around us. Known as mental maps or cognitive maps, these images are manipulated in the derivation of spatial solutions to guide us in our spatial learning. Cognitive mapping is an interactive, selective and organizational process. It is a skill we acquire from young and which becomes second nature to as. We are so used to doing it that we do not usually realise it. This dissertation considers mental mapping in Pasir Ris. Pasir Ris is a relatively young, peaceful and tranquil town in the Eastern part of Singapore. While it is home to many people, it is also a holiday resort serving people coming from all parts of Singapore. As it occurs in any place of the world, the cognitive mapping process begins the very moment a resident or visitor is in contact with Pasir Ris. As each person is inherently different from the others in terms of social background, purpose of visit to and length of visit in Pasir Ris, their mental maps would differ to a certain extent. This study will look at how the mental maps of residents from and visitors to Pasir Ris have been influenced by various factors such as age, sex, level of education and lifestyle. Various ways of improving the mental maps of users of Pasir Ris will also be discussed in an attempt to make cognitive mapping in Pasir Ris a more efficient process.