Identifying Cognitive Components in Environmental Information Processing

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify cognitive components in environmental information processing and to examine the impact of individual and environmental characteristics on this process.

Methods and Materials: This qualitative research was conducted using semi-structured interviews. Data were collected from 14 residents of Tehran, selected purposively. The data were analyzed using Nvivo software and thematic coding. The analysis was based on theoretical saturation.

Findings: The results of the study indicated that environmental information processing is influenced by three main categories: cognitive components (situation recognition, pattern detection, data analysis), individual characteristics (cognitive experiences, awareness level, cognitive attitudes), and environmental characteristics (physical and social features). Additionally, the findings revealed significant effects of individual and environmental characteristics on environmental information processing.

Conclusion: Environmental information processing is a complex process influenced by cognitive components, individual characteristics, and environmental characteristics. Paying attention to these factors can improve performance in complex and critical environments. Future research should examine these components more extensively in diverse samples and settings.