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GraphCom: A multidimensional measure of graphic complexity applied to 131 written languages
Li-Yun Chang1, Yen-Chi Chen2, Charles A Perfetti3
1Department of Applied Chinese Language and Culture, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan. liyunchang@ntnu.edu.tw.
Behavior Research Methods
|April 21, 2017
Summary
We developed GraphCom, a new visual complexity measure for graphs across 131 languages. This tool offers empirically validated insights into writing system complexity for reading and writing research.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Linguistics
- Computer Science
Background:
- Visual complexity of written forms impacts reading and writing.
- Existing measures lack cross-linguistic applicability and empirical validation.
- Understanding graphic complexity is crucial for reading research.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce GraphCom, a multidimensional measure of visual complexity for graphs.
- Quantify and compare visual complexity across 131 writing systems.
- Provide an empirically validated tool for studying reading and writing.
Main Methods:
- Developed GraphCom with four dimensions: perimetric complexity, disconnected components, connected points, and simple features.
- Analyzed 21,550 graphs from 131 written languages.
- Validated GraphCom against human perceptual judgments (n=180).
Main Results:
- GraphCom effectively captures visual complexity variations across writing systems.
- The measure demonstrates strong empirical validation, outperforming previous methods.
- Identified complexity patterns within and across different writing systems.
Conclusions:
- GraphCom is a universally applicable and empirically validated tool for assessing graphic complexity.
- Facilitates cross-linguistic comparisons and empirical testing in reading and writing research.
- Offers novel insights into the visual properties of written forms.
Keywords:
Connected pointsDisconnected componentGestalt principlesGraphic complexityPerimetric complexitySimple featuresWriting systemsMore Related Videos
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