Investigating Organization of Eye Gaze Communication Devices: Comparing Response Times in Grid Displays and Visual Screen Displays

Abstract

Eye gaze augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices are primarily implemented in populations with severe speech and physical impairments (SSPIs). There are two main methods of organizing these devices: a grid display and in a visual screen display (VSD). In order to facilitate efficient communication, language development, and meaningful connections in people who have severe SSPI, it is imperative to investigate the organization of eye gaze communication devices in a wide variety of communicative contexts. Tobii Sticky, an online eye-tracking software was used to compare initial fixation time and total response time between a grid display and a VSD with a sample of 7 UMD students. It was hypothesized that the VSD would warrant faster initial fixation times and the grid display would warrant faster total response times. There was no significant difference at a 95% confidence level between the two displays in terms of initial fixation and total response times. Further research must be conducted comparing the visual patterns of those using eye gaze communication devices, in youth and adult populations of those with and without SSPI.