The fundamentals of eye tracking part 2: From research question to operationalization

Ignace Hooge*, Antje Nuthmann, Marcus Nyström, Diederick Niehorster, Gijs Holleman, Richard Andersson, Roy Hessels

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

Abstract

In this article, we discuss operationalizations and examples of experimental design in eye-tracking research. First, we distinguish direct operationalization for entities like saccades, which are closely aligned with their original concepts, and indirect operationalization for concepts not directly measurable, such as attention or mind-wandering. The latter relies on selecting a measurable proxy. Second, we highlight the variability in algorithmic operationalizations and emphasize that changing parameters can affect outcome measures. Transparency in reporting these parameters and algorithms is crucial for comparisons across studies. Third, we provide references to studies for common operationalizations in eye-tracking research and discuss key operationalizations in reading research. Fourth, the IO-model is introduced as a tool to help researchers operationalize difficult concepts. Finally, we present three example experiments with useful methods for eye-tracking research, encouraging readers to consider these examples for inspiration in their own experiments.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-30
Number of pages30
JournalBehavior Research Methods
Volume57
Issue number73
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 24 Jan 2025

Keywords

  • eye tracking
  • experimental design
  • operationalization

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