Exploring Spatial Cognition: Comparative Analysis of Agent-Based Models in Dynamic and Static Environments

The adoption of agent-based modeling represents a transformative approach in the study of spatial cognition, providing a dynamic and flexible framework to explore and enhance navigational behaviors across varied environmental landscapes. In our study, we crafted and analyzed two specialized agent-based models, each designed for a unique set of conditions: one focuses on navigation in a static environment, while the other is geared towards adaptation in a dynamic setting, both employing mobile agents. Our comparative analysis reveals that agents trained in dynamic settings adapt better when tested in static environments, showing enhanced performance. This improvement highlights the robust adaptability of agents to varied contexts, especially when transitioning from complex, changing environments to simpler, static ones. However, agents trained in static environments struggle to achieve similar gains in dynamic settings, indicating a challenge in adapting to increased complexity. This asymmetry underscores the importance of dynamic training for developing versatile and effective navigational strategies.