with the advent of paper came the convenience of a ‘ handheld device ’. Yet , unlike electronic devices that provide step by step instructions a map requires the user to place themselves within the illustration , and require a general understanding of the heading .
The very description of a map as opposed to a device gives some indication as to how the brain and personality works . Maps are referred to as allocentric , with the allo meaning other , as in the map displays other information regarding the surrounds , whilst devices are egocentric , the ego being about ones self , it ’ s about the individual , their location and direction . Maps can be very abstract and require a level of knowledge of finding ones way , pinpointing features within the environment , an understanding of direction . Electronic devices require very little mental ability .
Egocentric navigational devices require the traveller to have no knowledge of location , direction , environment , or time . Simply plug in your destination and it will take you there , a passive passenger reducing the ability of spatial awareness and mental mapping , two key areas that better motorcycle riders seem to excel with .
Electronic devices are not all bad . Many have the ability to use outstanding mapping applications however , our mental capacity only benefits when these are used in the same way as a traditional paper map with the added convenience of the heading being automated . We still need to use them in the way that a paper map would , looking for landmarks , roads , buildings . In a sense , still navigated our own path , exploring . The benefits diminish when we ask the device to plot a route and we simply follow along .
On your next ‘ adventure ’ try using a paper map and just head in the general direction of your destination , do the same on Google maps or whatever mapping application is on your device . Do not rely on the electronic navigation . Granted , it will be slower , that ’ s not a bad thing , you are likely to discover more , seeing the world around you . It might also make you a much more aware motorcycle traveller . TRAVERSE