Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review

Abstract Recently, many studies have been published on the use of eye-tracking to analyse complex problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments. This scoping review aims to provide a systematic report of the current state-of-the-art for related papers....

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Main Authors: Christian W. Mayer, Andreas Rausch, Jürgen Seifried
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: SpringerOpen 2023-04-01
Series:Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s40461-023-00140-2
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author Christian W. Mayer
Andreas Rausch
Jürgen Seifried
author_facet Christian W. Mayer
Andreas Rausch
Jürgen Seifried
author_sort Christian W. Mayer
collection DOAJ
description Abstract Recently, many studies have been published on the use of eye-tracking to analyse complex problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments. This scoping review aims to provide a systematic report of the current state-of-the-art for related papers. Specifically, this work offers a scoping review of studies that analyse problem-solving processes by using eye-tracking (alongside additional process data such as log files, think aloud, facial expression recognition algorithms, or psychophysiological measures) within authentic technology-based learning and training environments for professional and vocational education and training (VET). A total of 12 studies were identified. The most commonly calculated measures in eye-tracking research are position measures, and these are almost exclusively position duration measures such as the proportion of fixation times or total dwell times. Count measures are also mostly related to the number or proportion of fixations and dwells. Movement measures are rarely computed and usually refer to saccade directions or a scan path. Also, latency and distance measures are almost never calculated. Eye-tracking data is most often analysed for group comparisons between experts vs. novices or high vs. low-performing groups by using common statistical methods such as t-test, (M)ANOVA, or non-parametric Mann–Whitney-U. Visual attention patterns in problem-solving are examined with heat map analyses, lag sequential analyses, and clustering. Recently, linear mixed-effects models have been applied to account for between and within-subjects differences. Also, post-hoc performance predictions are being developed for future integration into multimodal learning analytics. In most cases, self-reporting is used as an additional measurement for data triangulation. In addition to eye-tracking, log files and facial expression recognition algorithms are also used. Few studies use shimmer devices to detect electrodermal activity or practice concurrent thinking aloud. Overall, Haider and Frensch’s (1996, 1999) “information reduction hypothesis” is supported by many studies in the sample. High performers showed a higher visual accuracy, and visual attention was more focused on relevant areas, as seen by fewer fixation counts and higher fixation duration. Low performers showed significantly fewer fixation durations or substantially longer fixation durations and less selective visual attention. Performance is related to prior knowledge and differences in cognitive load. Eye-tracking, (in combination with other data sources) may be a valid method for further research on problem-solving processes in computer-based simulations, may help identify different patterns of problem-solving processes between performance groups, and may hold additional potential for individual learning support.
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spelling doaj.art-d449b0fe3eb54d0eacda71cf90eb49a42023-04-23T11:29:09ZengSpringerOpenEmpirical Research in Vocational Education and Training1877-63452023-04-0115112710.1186/s40461-023-00140-2Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping reviewChristian W. Mayer0Andreas Rausch1Jürgen Seifried2Business School, Economic and Business Education, University of MannheimBusiness School, Economic and Business Education, University of MannheimBusiness School, Economic and Business Education, University of MannheimAbstract Recently, many studies have been published on the use of eye-tracking to analyse complex problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments. This scoping review aims to provide a systematic report of the current state-of-the-art for related papers. Specifically, this work offers a scoping review of studies that analyse problem-solving processes by using eye-tracking (alongside additional process data such as log files, think aloud, facial expression recognition algorithms, or psychophysiological measures) within authentic technology-based learning and training environments for professional and vocational education and training (VET). A total of 12 studies were identified. The most commonly calculated measures in eye-tracking research are position measures, and these are almost exclusively position duration measures such as the proportion of fixation times or total dwell times. Count measures are also mostly related to the number or proportion of fixations and dwells. Movement measures are rarely computed and usually refer to saccade directions or a scan path. Also, latency and distance measures are almost never calculated. Eye-tracking data is most often analysed for group comparisons between experts vs. novices or high vs. low-performing groups by using common statistical methods such as t-test, (M)ANOVA, or non-parametric Mann–Whitney-U. Visual attention patterns in problem-solving are examined with heat map analyses, lag sequential analyses, and clustering. Recently, linear mixed-effects models have been applied to account for between and within-subjects differences. Also, post-hoc performance predictions are being developed for future integration into multimodal learning analytics. In most cases, self-reporting is used as an additional measurement for data triangulation. In addition to eye-tracking, log files and facial expression recognition algorithms are also used. Few studies use shimmer devices to detect electrodermal activity or practice concurrent thinking aloud. Overall, Haider and Frensch’s (1996, 1999) “information reduction hypothesis” is supported by many studies in the sample. High performers showed a higher visual accuracy, and visual attention was more focused on relevant areas, as seen by fewer fixation counts and higher fixation duration. Low performers showed significantly fewer fixation durations or substantially longer fixation durations and less selective visual attention. Performance is related to prior knowledge and differences in cognitive load. Eye-tracking, (in combination with other data sources) may be a valid method for further research on problem-solving processes in computer-based simulations, may help identify different patterns of problem-solving processes between performance groups, and may hold additional potential for individual learning support.https://doi.org/10.1186/s40461-023-00140-2Complex problem-solvingComputer-based learning environmentsComputer-based simulationsVocational education and trainingVETOnline measurements
spellingShingle Christian W. Mayer
Andreas Rausch
Jürgen Seifried
Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review
Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training
Complex problem-solving
Computer-based learning environments
Computer-based simulations
Vocational education and training
VET
Online measurements
title Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review
title_full Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review
title_fullStr Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review
title_full_unstemmed Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review
title_short Analysing domain-specific problem-solving processes within authentic computer-based learning and training environments by using eye-tracking: a scoping review
title_sort analysing domain specific problem solving processes within authentic computer based learning and training environments by using eye tracking a scoping review
topic Complex problem-solving
Computer-based learning environments
Computer-based simulations
Vocational education and training
VET
Online measurements
url https://doi.org/10.1186/s40461-023-00140-2
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