Using virtual-reality technologies to assess egocentric and allocentric spatial representations in working memory

Subject of study. This paper proposes a method for assessing the accuracy of egocentric and allocentric spatial representations, which are used for describing the surrounding space in optical systems. The accuracy of these spatial representations is influenced by various factors, including personal, emotional, cognitive, and environmental elements. Aim of study. The aim of this study was to develop and test a method for assessing the accuracy of egocentric and allocentric spatial representations in working memory. Method. The study employs immersive CAVE virtual- reality technologies. Main results. The findings reveal that, in working memory, the spatial representation of information is task-dependent and influenced by the human factor. Practical significance. The operator's representation of visual information may be used as the foundation for the coordinated functioning of visual and spatial cognitive systems, which encode the metric, depth, and topological parameters of object localization in space. The variability of the obtained data serves as a practical basis for controlling stress responses of various levels under virtual-reality conditions, depending on the complexity of the cognitive task being solved and individual characteristics, such as cognitive style, personality traits, and the development of spatial abilities. The results can be applied in robotics, healthcare, and related fields and can aid in improving procedures used for differential diagnosing, testing, and correcting spatial disorders. (c) 2025 Optica Publishing Group