Rat Maze (IMAGE) Washington State University Caption WSU research analyst Michelle Schmidt releases a rat into an open field maze that will be used to test cognitive flexibility in the new study. Through localized vibrations of the maze floor, rats are given spatial orientation cues to motivate them to navigate from a random start location to an unmarked target location. Credit Washington State University photo Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.