Tracking the eyes to obtain insight into insight problem solving

Günther Knoblich, Michael Öllinger, Michael J. Spivey

Research output: Contribution to Book/Report typesChapterpeer-review

Abstract (may include machine translation)

This chapter addresses the use of the eye-movement methodology in research on insight problem solving. First, it provides a short review of classical research and some definitions for insight. Then, it introduces two current theories of insight problem solving, the representational change theory and the dynamic constraint theory. The next part of the chapter discusses the added value of eye-movement measures and describes recent empirical studies in which eye movements are recorded to investigate the cognitive processes underlying insight. The results show that the use of eye movements has had important implications for theorising. The last part of the section discusses future research avenues, especially the possibility that eye movements themselves can, in a bottom-up manner, kick-start cognitive processes that lead to insight.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCognitive Processes in Eye Guidance
PublisherOxford University Press
Pages355–376
Number of pages22
ISBN (Electronic)9780191693618
ISBN (Print)9780198566816
DOIs
StatePublished - 22 Mar 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Dynamic constraint
  • Eye movements
  • Eye tracking
  • Insight
  • Insight problem solving

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