Potential of eye-tracking for interactive geovisual exploration aided by machine learning

ABSTRACT This review article collects knowledge on the use of eye-tracking and machine learning methods for application in automated and interactive geovisualization systems. Our focus is on exploratory reading of geovisualizations (abbr. geoexploration) and on machine learning tools for exploring vector geospatial data. We particularly consider geospatial data that is unlabeled, confusing or unknown to the user. The contribution of the article is in (i) defining principles and requirements for enabling user interaction with the geovisualizations that learn from and adapt to user behavior, and (ii) reviewing the use of eye tracking and machine learning to design gaze-aware interactive map systems (GAIMS). In this context, we review literature on (i) human-computer interaction (HCI) design for exploring geospatial data, (ii) eye tracking for cartographic user experience, and (iii) machine learning applied to vector geospatial data. The review indicates that combining eye tracking and machine learning is promising in terms of assisting geoexploration. However, more research is needed on eye tracking for interaction and personalization of cartographic/map interfaces as well as on machine learning for detection of geometries in vector format.