Proximity is a state of mind: exploring mental maps in daily activity travel behaviour

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the behavioural framework for the integration of the ‘mental map’ concept into the activity based modelling of travel behaviour. The conceptual framework and the research methodology are described. Stated and revealed preference data gathering techniques are used simultaneously to gain insight in the role of ‘spatial cognition’ in daily travel choice behaviour. This results in a qualitative descriptive reflection on spatial learning and activity travel planning. Keynote of this research is the fact that spatial cognition – here defined as knowledge, experience and perception of large scale environments and its transportation systems – influences the choice set of alternatives that are known and considered by individual travelers. This could affect location choice, mode choice as well as route choice.