Vision toolkit part 1. Neurophysiological foundations and experimental paradigms in eye-tracking research: a review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Human Gaze Behavior

Background:

• Eye-tracking research investigates neurophysiological mechanisms of eye movements and their interaction with stimuli.
• Traditional lab studies offer insights but lack ecological validity.
• Mobile eye-tracking enables research in naturalistic environments, revealing complex gaze-environment interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review foundational principles of oculomotor control and neural subsystems for gaze.
• To explore the impact of mobile eye-tracking technology on naturalistic research.
• To address methodological fragmentation and guide experimental design in eye-tracking studies.

Main Methods:

• Review of foundational principles of oculomotor control.
• Examination of neurophysiological mechanisms governing eye movements.
• Analysis of mobile eye-tracking technologies and their application in naturalistic settings.

Main Results:

• Controlled studies advance understanding but have ecological validity limitations.
• Mobile eye-tracking reveals gaze interplay with head, trunk, and sensory systems in natural environments.
• Technological advancements lead to methodological fragmentation across disciplines.

Conclusions:

• Distinctions between head-restrained and naturalistic eye-tracking are crucial.
• Bridging neurophysiological insights with experimental paradigms is essential.
• Guidance is provided to mitigate pitfalls in selecting and designing eye-tracking experiments.