Eye-tracking in map use, map user and map usability research: what are we looking for?

Fairbairn, D. and Hepburn, J. (2023) Eye-tracking in map use, map user and map usability research: what are we looking for? International Journal of Cartography, 9(2), pp. 231-254. (doi: 10.1080/23729333.2023.2189064)

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Abstract

This overview paper summarises the ‘state of the art and of the science’ of eye-tracking, and its applications in map use research. Cartographic research is introduced, and its contemporary direction, which indicates that the main areas of such research are now focussed on human beings and their interaction with maps and geospatial displays, is stressed. A brief outline of several different methodologies for map use research is presented: observation, thinking loud, keyboard analysis, eye-tracking, and questionnaires. The role of eye-tracking as a major methodology for use, user, and usability investigation is explored; along with the possible choices for the researcher in the important areas of participant selection, eye-tracking equipment, set-up and use of the testing environment, and analysis of output data. Typical outcomes from eye tracking research are considered, with an assessment of its value in cartographic research in general. Future directions are suggested, along with the need for cartography to promote the valuable work done by researchers using eye-tracking for map use studies to the wider human-computer interaction community, expanding the scope of the geospatial-based stimuli in such experiments beyond maps, making use of the significant expertise and enthusiasm of cartographic researchers.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:The work described in this paper was undertaken as part of research supported by the NERC Dream CDT PhD programme, United Kingdom Research and Innovation agency (UKRI).
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Hepburn, Miss Jessica
Authors: Fairbairn, D., and Hepburn, J.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
Journal Name:International Journal of Cartography
Publisher:Taylor & Francis
ISSN:2372-9333
ISSN (Online):2372-9341
Published Online:16 March 2023
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2023 The Author(s)
First Published:First published in International Journal of Cartography 9(2):231-254
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons license

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