This paradigm is supposed to measure spatial learning and memory in rodents, specifically mice and rats. The idea is to test memory and learning on rodents who have been affected cognitively due to various chemicals/substances, injuries, diseases, and differing genetics.  The Barnes Maze works by using a circular surface with 20 circular holes in it. Only one of the holes has an escape route/hole that leads to an enclosure or chamber of sorts. Various spatial cues are situated throughout the maze to allow for the rodent to orient itself with the maze.  The goal is for the rodent to avoid holes without the escape route and go directly to the hole with the escape route. The idea is that through repeated trials, the rodent will eventually learn where the escape hole is and will find it quickly and efficiently. This demonstrates improved spatial learning and memory. The performance of the rodent is measured by the number of times it pokes its nose in a hole that doesn't have an escape box. Performance is also measured by how long it takes for the rodent to get to the correct escape box. The equipment needed to run this paradigm includes the circular surface with 20 circular holes in it and an escape box/chamber attached to one of the holes. Spatial cues are also needed, which includes patterns and shapes of varying color. A stopwatch is needed to determine amount of time taken to find the escape route and an enclosure is needed to ensure the rodent doesn't fall off the edges of the surface. Video tracking equipment could also be useful in order to record the behavior of the fast-moving rodents. It's also important to know that the dimensions for the surface should be 92 centimeters in diameter with 20 equally spaced wholes that are each 5 centimeters in diameter and are 7.5 centimeters apart from each other. It's also important to note that the rodents will be placed in the middle of the surface, being equally distant from all holes.