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Eye tracking in human interaction: Possibilities and limitations
Niilo V Valtakari1, Ignace T C Hooge2, Charlotte Viktorsson3
1Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS, Utrecht, the Netherlands. niilovaltakari@gmail.com.
Behavior Research Methods
|January 7, 2021
Summary
Researchers can now measure gaze during human interactions using wearable video-based eye trackers. This study outlines different eye-tracking setups and provides a decision tree to help select the most appropriate method for studying human behavior.
Area of Science:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Cognitive Science
- Psychology
Background:
- Investigating looking behavior in human interactions has a long history.
- Advancements in wearable video-based eye trackers enable detailed gaze measurement during various interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline existing eye-tracking setups for studying gaze during human interaction.
- To differentiate setups based on signal type and movement freedom.
- To provide guidance for researchers in selecting appropriate eye-tracking methodologies.
Main Methods:
- Review and categorization of current wearable video-based eye-tracking systems.
- Analysis of how different setups (head-centered vs. world-centered gaze signals, movement constraints) impact research possibilities.
- Development of a decision tree to aid in setup selection.
Main Results:
- Eye-tracking setups vary significantly in their signal reference (head- or world-centered) and participant movement allowances.
- These variations impose specific constraints on the types of research questions addressable.
- A decision tree is proposed to assist researchers in choosing the optimal setup.
Conclusions:
- The choice of eye-tracking setup is critical and depends on the specific research question concerning human interaction.
- Understanding the trade-offs between different systems (e.g., signal accuracy, ecological validity) is essential.
- The provided decision tree serves as a practical tool for researchers in the field of human interaction studies.
