Iaria, GiuseppeArnold, Aiden EGF2012-09-242012-11-132012-09-242012Arnold, A. EGF. (2012). Neural Network Dynamics and Efficiency Underlying Individual Variability in Spatial Orientation (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/27079http://hdl.handle.net/11023/215Spatial orientation is a complex human skill that exhibits a high degree of individual variability. Here, a neural network perspective is applied to delineate the neural basis of this variability. Using a task that isolates the orientation process from spatial navigation, two sources of neural network variability were found to relate to accurate performance in making orientation decisions – network configuration and efficiency. Participants who preferentially recruited the right Supramarginal Gyrus within a task-related network performed better on the task. Global efficiency in a task-related and whole brain network were also found to relate to performance. These results are presented in a tentative model where the underlying functional architecture of a right lateralized anatomical network influences a person’s ability to configure brain networks associated with spatial orientation. The implications of this model are discussed in the context of neurodegenerative disorders and how it can be used in clinical settings.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.Psychology--Experimentalspatial orientationfMRIfunctional connectivityNavigationcognitive neurosciencemaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/27079