Mobile eye tracking applied as a tool for customer experience research in a crowded train station

Train stations have increasingly become crowded, necessitating stringent requirements in the design of stations and commuter navigation through these stations. In this study, we explored the use of mobile eye tracking in combination with observation and a survey to gain knowledge on customer experience in a crowded train station. We investigated the utilization of mobile eye tracking in ascertaining customers’ perception of the train station environment and analyzed the effect of a signalization prototype (visual pedestrian flow cues), which was intended for regulating pedestrian flow in a crowded underground passage. Gaze behavior, estimated crowd density, and comfort levels (an individual’s comfort level in a certain situation), were measured before and after the implementation of the prototype. The results revealed that the prototype was visible in conditions of low crowd density. However, in conditions of high crowd density, the prototype was less visible, and the path choice was influenced by other commuters. Hence, herd behavior appeared to have a stronger effect than the implemented signalization prototype in conditions of high crowd density. Thus, mobile eye tracking in combination with observation and the survey successfully aided in understanding customers’ perception of the train station environment on a qualitative level and supported the evaluation of the signalization prototype the crowded underground passage. However, the analysis process was laborious, which could be an obstacle for its practical use in gaining customer insights

Pilot situation awareness training using eye tracking

Numerous studies in high-risk work settings indicate that about 80% of all accident causes in aviation can be attributed to human factors. Moreover Endsley point out that about 88% of all accident causes can be reduced to Situation Awareness (perception [76.3%], comprehension [20.3%], and anticipation [3.4%]). Thus an effective training concept is necessary to support pilots in achieving and maintaining appropriate scanning skills (perception). The following talk aims at demonstrating a new training design for general aviation pilots which involves theoretical information about scanning techniques/situation awareness and which is combined with either simulation exercises or in-flight exercises with flight instructors – both flown with eye tracking glasses, which provide adequate and detailed feedback about scanning behaviour of pilots. Besides theoretical training content, training development (including survey of general aviation pilot’s information about their scanning techniques) as well as training and scenario design will be introduced

Situation Awareness Training for General Aviation Pilots using Eye Tracking

Numerous studies in high-risk work settings reveal the great amount of human related causes in accident and incidents occurrences (e.g., Flin, 2008; Helmreich, 2000; Reason, 1990). Moreover, Endsley (1999) points out that about 88% of all accident causes can be traced back to situation awareness (L1 perception [76.3%], L2 comprehension [20.3%], and L3 anticipation [3.4%]). As there is no common and standardized training content on scanning behavior and situation awareness in today’s flight school education in Switzerland, an effective training concept is necessary a) to support pilots in achieving and maintaining appropriate scanning skills; b) to develop personal mechanisms in handling situation awareness and c) to regain situation awareness after an unexpected event (e.g., LOC-I). The following paper aims at demonstrating a new training design for general aviation pilots. The training involves theoretical information about scanning techniques and situation awareness and is combined with practical exercises - either in a flight simulator or in real flight sessions. During the practical training session, the pilot wears an eye tracking device, which provides the flight instructor (trainer) with immediate information on the pilot’s scanning patterns and state of situation awareness