What is a cognitive map?
A cognitive map is a visual representation of an individual’s or group’s mental map of any process or concept. It represents how our minds work to build connections between different things in a specific environment. A cognitive map can be fluid and change as you experience or observe more things about a specific environment.
How do we obtain cognitive maps?
Cognitive maps can be constructed using a variety of tools, such as individual or group interviews and cognitive mapping software. Cognitive maps may include creating a visual representation of different factors in a specific environment and the associations an individual may form between different factors.
During Zoom interviews with participants, we will use a cognitive mapping software called mentalmodeler (https://www.mentalmodeler.com/) to capture participants’ cognitive map about tap water quality.
What cognitive map are we interested in for this research?
We are interested in your experience of your water system and water quality. We hope to learn more about your thoughts about your water system and your understanding of factors that impact water quality.
What can you expect as a participant?
You will receive a time, date, and Zoom link for your interview.
On the day of the study, our team members will use a scripted protocol for cognitive mapping to facilitate a discussion about the research topic. The interview should take approximately 45-60 minutes to complete.
Following the interview, you will complete a survey and perform water sampling and testing.