Where Am I Now? Modelling Disorientation in Pan-Scalar Maps

Disorientation is a common feeling for all users of zoomable multi-scale maps, even for those with good orientation and spatial skills. We make the assumption that this problem is mainly due to the desert fog effect, documented in human-computer interaction within multi-scale zoomable environments. Starting with a collection of reported experiences of disorientation, this paper explores this notion from the spatial cognition, philosophical and human-computer interaction perspectives and proposes a model of disorientation in the exploration of multi-scale maps. We argue that disorientation is a problem of reconciliation between the current map view and the mental map of the user, where landmarks visible on the map or memorised in the mental map play a key role. The causes for failed reconciliation are discussed and illustrated by our collected experiences of disorientation.