Measuring Spatial Behaviour and Cognition: A Method Based on Trajectories Analysis and Supported by Technology and Artificial Intelligence

Spatial cognition is a fundamental cognitive process for adapting to the environment, and it has been extensively researched in humans, animals, and artificial agents using various methods, such as clinical and comparative studies. Spatial cognition and related skills can be deduced from behaviours, such as reaching for an object, returning to a familiar area after an extended run, or identifying the corner in an enclosure where food is hidden. In this paper, we will propose a method based on trajectory analysis with index calculation and we will illustrate two examples of applying this method 1) to a neuro-psychological test and 2) analyzing the performance of agents in a behavioural task. The results suggest that this method can complement traditional measures of spatial cognition.