| Several fields in computer science such as software engineering and human computer interaction (HCI) have found usability research to be essential to the evaluation of their software products. Recently, monitoring where users look while they are using various software systems has proved helpful to designers. Eye tracking however, is hampered by numerous problems and technical challenges prevent collecting reliable eye movement data. Data extraction is not only labor intensive but making sense out of eye tracking data is another problem. To resolve these issues, the EventStream software framework was created as an instrument to facilitate integrated distributed eye movement research. The EventStream software framework makes four contributions in the area of Computer Science. First, EventStream increases productivity in the field of eye movement research and HCI by simplifying data recording, management and analysis. Second, an advanced notification library as well as a time server for networked data packet synchronization extends current software practice. Third, a Scentmap implemented enhances visualization techniques as well as hypothesis generation and evaluation. The Scentmap realizes a voluntary and involuntary fixations display, defined as third order data in eye movement research. Last, a program comprehension study conducted returned valuable information regarding Beacons in code. |
