Neighbourhood-level pedestrian navigation using the construal level theory

Abstract

Pedestrian navigation decisions take place simultaneously at multiple spatial scales. Yet most models of pedestrian behaviour focus either on local physical interactions or optimisation of routes across a road network. We present a novel hierarchical pedestrian route choice framework that integrates dynamic, perceptual decisions at the street level with abstract, network-based decisions at the neighbourhood level. The framework is based on construal level theory which states that decision makers construe decisions based on their psychological distance from the object of the decision. We implement this route choice framework in a spatial agent-based model in which pedestrian and vehicle agents complete trips in an urban environment. Using global sensitivity analysis techniques, we demonstrate the interaction between route choice components representing decision making at different spatial and temporal scales. Additionally, through comparison to a least cost network model, we demonstrate the increased route heterogeneity produced by this approach. This work could form the basis of an alternative method for producing pedestrian route alternatives. The granularity and scale of the modelled pedestrian trajectories could also help improve appraisals of street infrastructure.

Advances in geospatial approaches to transport networks and sustainable mobility

“…Three papers in this special issue advance the science in this domain by incorporating uncertainties and variability in navigation and public transport accessibility. Thompson Sargoni and Manley (2023) developed a novel hierarchical pedestrian route choice framework based on construal level theory (Trope and Liberman, 2012) that integrates dynamic, perceptual decisions at the street level with abstract, and network-based decisions at the neighbourhood level. They show with a case-study focusing on pedestrian navigation in London, UK, that movement is affected by decision making at both the neighbourhood and street level.…”