Using Eye Tracking to Compare how Adults and Children Learn to Use an Unfamiliar Computer Game

摘要

The learnability principle was originally formulated with computer-based applications mainly for adults in mind. In this paper we compare how children and adults learn to use an unfamiliar computer game to determine whether leamability has different meanings across generations. We recorded eye tracking data while users taught themselves to play a computer game. Comparison of the on-screen focus points and eye gazing patterns showed that adults and children have different tactics when confronted with an unfamiliar game. It revealed aspects of software interfaces that adults and children approach differently. For example, children will focus on the game elements and use a trial-and-error approach instead of reading on-screen instructions, while adults are more willing to interrupt game play to read the instructions. The knowledge gained through this research will help designers to distinguish between the needs of users in different age groups and improve the leamability of their products.