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In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) have pioneered the use of eye-tracking technology in educational settings, offering unprecedented insights into how students learn mathematics. This innovative approach is set to transform mathematical education by providing a deeper understanding of students’ cognitive processes and learning challenges.
Eye-tracking technology, which monitors where and how long a person looks at different parts of a visual stimulus, has been integrated into educational research for the first time in Lithuania. This method allows researchers to observe and analyze the thought processes and decision-making strategies of students as they solve mathematical problems.
Dr. Irina Kliziene, a professor at the KTU Faculty of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, along with her PhD student Asta Paškovske, spearheaded this study. “By applying eye-tracking technology, we can track individual student activities and gain insights into their cognitive processes during mathematical problem-solving,” explains Dr. Kliziene.
The recent research conducted by Kliziene and Paškovske reveals that eye-tracking can identify specific difficulties children face while tackling math problems. The technology captures gaze patterns, providing valuable information about the strategies students use and the areas where they struggle.
“Eye-tracking studies with children unveil the strategies they employ in visual processing and highlight the challenges they encounter at each step of solving a problem. This non-intrusive method allows us to observe students’ decision-making processes without disrupting their work,” adds Prof. Kliziene.
The researchers conducted a comprehensive literature review on the application of eye-tracking in educational settings. Their findings show that eye-tracking data can pinpoint which steps of a mathematical problem are most challenging for students and which aspects are harder to understand. This information is crucial as it often goes unnoticed in traditional classroom settings.
Asta Paškovske emphasizes the advantages of eye-tracking, saying, “This technology enables us to see where students direct their gaze when solving problems, helping us understand which problem-solving steps are most difficult and how they process information.”
The insights gained from eye-tracking research can lead to more effective teaching strategies and improved learning habits. By analyzing gaze patterns, educators can tailor teaching materials to highlight important information and address areas where students frequently struggle.
Prof. Kliziene highlights the significance of this research, noting, “Eye-tracking provides essential data on not just the outcomes of learning, but also the cognitive processes involved. It allows us to study cognitive load, attention span, and problem-solving strategies in a way that was previously impossible.”
The technology involves non-invasive eye-trackers equipped with infrared light sources, gaze-tracking cameras, and specialized software. These devices, used in a natural learning environment, capture and analyze eye movements and patterns of focus.
The potential applications of eye-tracking technology extend beyond identifying learning challenges. It can help educators optimize teaching materials, enhance the clarity of instructions, and personalize the learning experience based on each student’s cognitive load.
“By observing students’ gaze patterns, we can adjust the layout of teaching materials to ensure that critical information is more prominent,” says Paškovske. “This approach not only improves learning efficiency but also makes the educational process more engaging.”
The research team at KTU believes that their work will not only advance mathematical education but also contribute to better overall academic performance and enhanced learning experiences. Eye-tracking technology is emerging as a valuable tool in education, providing a deeper understanding of learning processes and paving the way for more effective teaching methods.
