Using Eye-tracking tools in the visual assessment of architecture

Abstract

The motivation for this research stems from the belief that some currently available technologies are overlooked in architecture practice, despite their significant potentials and capabilities. These potentials can help architects better understand the impact of architecture and design proposals in a more scientific way. Whereas the main purpose of this research is to review relevant studies, characteristics, and potentials of various types of modern eye-tracking technology in architectural design and architecture visual assessment. Such motivation and purpose arrived from recognizing the problem concerning the absence of an objective tool that can detect and analyze how observers visually perceive architecture. Moreover, as current visual assessment of architecture is widely conducted by reporting subjective opinions which can be biased, mis-expressed, or misleading. Through the revision of eye-tracking technology`s characteristics, revision of recent academic research concerning the implementation of eye-tracking technology in architecture, and assessment of the technology from an architectural perspective, this study adds to the field of research in architecture visual perception and recognition by; (1) reviewing eye-tracking research, (2) expanding the knowledge regarding the role played by eye-tracking technologies in architecture, and (3) establishing a connection between eye-tracking technologies and architecture practice. Conclusively, the study concluded that eye-tracking technologies have some advantages to the field of architecture despite of having some disadvantages and incompatibilities that conflict with the architecture practice nature.