Measuring Cognition Load Using Eye-Tracking Parameters Based on Algorithm Description Tools.

Jozsef Katona

doi:10.3390/s22030912

Abstract

Writing a computer program is a complex cognitive task, especially for a new person in the field. In this research an eye-tracking system was developed and applied, which allows the observation of eye movement parameters during programming as a complex, cognitive process, and the conclusions can be drawn from the results. The aim of the paper is to examine whether the flowchart or Nassi–Shneiderman diagram is a more efficient algorithm descripting tool for describing cognitive load by recording and evaluating eye movement parameters. The results show that the case of the interpreting flowchart has significantly longer fixation duration, more number of fixations, and larger pupil diameter than the case of the Nassi–Shneiderman diagram interpreting. Based on the results of the study, it is clear how important it is to choose the right programming tools for efficient and lower cost application development.

Highlights

Writing a computer program is a complex cognitive task, especially for a new person in the field [1]
The commonly used algorithm description tool is the flowchart (FCh), which describes the algorithm as a directed graph, illustrating the steps of execution, while the Nassi–Shneiderman diagram (NSD), called NS diagram or structogram, represents the algorithm as a graph without edges as a “structured flow charts”
The results were determined from the eye movement parameters observed and recorded in all Area of Interest (AOI) areas

Summary

Introduction

Writing a computer program is a complex cognitive task, especially for a new person in the field [1]. In order to facilitate the process and to understand the algorithms to be implemented a higher level of algorithmic thinking and problem solving is required [2,3,4]. Algorithm description tools have been introduced to describe the algorithm to be implemented independently of the programming language in order to make the algorithms more transparent and understandable. The commonly used algorithm description tool is the flowchart (FCh), which describes the algorithm as a directed graph, illustrating the steps of execution, while the Nassi–Shneiderman diagram (NSD), called NS diagram or structogram, represents the algorithm as a graph without edges as a “structured flow charts”. The presented system is excellent for teaching structural programming, as it avoids the learning difficulty caused by the individual syntax of programming languages, providing an opportunity to develop problem-solving skills [1,5]

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Conclusion