Using eye tracking to examine expert-novice differences during simulated surgical training: A case study

Eye tracking data can serve as a unique metric for comparing expert-novice differences by providing insights into attentional processes, which can lead to timely intervention and better instruction. In this study, we used eye tracking technology to record and analyze the eye movements of experts and novices conducting a surgical procedure in a simulation environment. Specifically, we compared the differences in the eye movement parameters (i.e., average fixation, saccade, and blink durations), the distribution of visual attention, and the shift of visual focus between experts and novices across three task phases. We found that experts had longer fixation durations, shorter saccade durations, and more gaze points on task-relevant areas. The visual attention of novices was more diffuse than experts. Moreover, task complexity was found to moderate the size of expert-novice differences in their eye movements. Findings from this study inform the assessment of professional competency in the medicine domain. This study also helps to advance the use of eye tracking as a methodology for educational research.