MDPI AG
Use of Eye-Tracking Technology to Determine Differences Between Perceptual and Actual Navigational Performance
2025
This study uses eye-tracking technology (ETT) to investigate discrepancies between seafarers’ perceived and actual performance during simulated maritime operations. The primary objective is to explore how misperceptions regarding the use of navigational tools—such as visual observation, radar, and ECDIS—may contribute to discrepancies in situational awareness, which is critical for safe navigation. By comparing participants’ self-reported perceptions with objective data recorded by ETT, the study highlights cognitive biases that influence navigational decision-making. Data were collected from a simulation scenario involving 32 seafarers with varying levels of maritime experience. The results reveal that participants tend to overestimate their reliance on visual observation and ECDIS, while underestimating their use of radar. These discrepancies may affect decision-making processes and could contribute to an inaccurate perception of situational awareness, although further research is needed to fully establish their direct impact on actual navigational performance. Additionally, the application of ETT identifies differences in the navigational strategies between more and less experienced seafarers, offering insights that could inform the development of training programs aimed at improving situational awareness. Statistical analyses, including Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal–Wallis tests, were conducted to assess the influence of demographic factors on performance. These findings suggest that ETT can be a valuable tool for identifying perceptual biases, potentially improving decision-making and enhancing training for real-world navigational tasks.
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