Studying attention to IPCC climate change maps with mobile eye-tracking

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Climate Communication
• Visual Attention Research

Background:

• Climate change visualizations aim to inform the public about scientific models.
• Limited research exists on visual processing of climate data, especially from a behavioral science perspective.
• Understanding public visual attention is crucial for effective climate communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine visual attention trends in climate change prediction maps using mobile eye-tracking.
• To assess map engagement via gaze metrics and the influence of social context.
• To explore relationships between projection types, anxiety scores, and attention patterns.

Main Methods:

• Mobile eye-tracking was used with participants viewing climate projection maps and artworks.
• Data collected in naturalistic conditions to enhance ecological validity.
• Participants viewed maps individually or in pairs, and completed the Climate Change Anxiety Scale (CCAS).

Main Results:

• Significant attention was directed towards the upper parts of maps, particularly continental Europe, indicating a Euro-centric bias.
• Social context had minimal impact on spatial gaze patterns, but influenced fixation counts and durations.
• No substantial differences in attention were found across projection timeframes or types; artwork viewing showed shorter fixation durations than map viewing.
• No direct correlation was observed between self-reported climate anxiety and gaze metrics.

Conclusions:

• Visual attention to climate maps is primarily driven by inherent map attributes.
• Social context can subtly influence visual engagement strategies.
• Distinct attentional patterns emerge between scientific and aesthetic visual processing.