Integrating Low-Cost Eye-Trackers to Enhance Design Education: A Case Study in University Course.

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Product Design Innovation
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Product design education is evolving with technological integration.
• Affordable technology solutions are crucial for widespread adoption in classrooms.
• Eye-tracking (ET) offers potential for understanding user interaction in design processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the integration of low-cost eye-tracking (ET) technology in a product design process.
• To evaluate the impact of ET and an alternative tracking (AT) method on design students.
• To assess student perceptions of utility, novelty, and relevance of the integrated technologies.

Main Methods:

• A practical case study involving design students developing a product.
• Incorporation of a low-cost eye-tracking (ET) device and an alternative tracking (AT) method.
• Evaluation via surveys assessing utility, novelty, and relevance among 47 students.

Main Results:

• Both ET and AT technologies received high approval ratings.
• Eye-tracking (ET) was evaluated significantly more favorably than AT.
• Students showed a strong preference for ET regarding utility, novelty, and relevance.

Conclusions:

• Low-cost eye-tracking technology is a valuable tool for product design education.
• Students associate low-cost technology integration with usefulness and positive learning experiences.
• Innovative methodologies and affordable devices enhance teaching and learning for all stakeholders.