Visualising student attention in learning fluid dynamics using eye-tracking in virtual reality*

With the expansion of immersive technologies and supporting tools, at matar fluids group, we are experimenting with new forms of the interactive student experience for learning and teaching fluid dynamics. We have been developing an interactive and multimodal platform to facilitate learning fluid dynamics with the rationale of using an immersive environment as a visualisation medium. Our in-house virtual reality app for teaching fluid dynamics has significantly enhanced student engagement. This work has extended this platform through eye gaze and movement tracking. We introduce new methods to visualise student attention and activity patterns as they explore the FluidVR app from a third-person perspective. The results can help educators make informed decisions on restoring attention. For example, sometimes, students look outside the relevant regions to the current presentation in FluidVR. In the case of mixing, it can be hard to focus on smaller areas of bubble formation due to overall complexity. With the help of gaze tracking and visual cues, students can be encouraged to return visual focus to the appropriate area of interest. This new functionality gives an insight into student attention and help assess the effectiveness of teaching fluid dynamics using virtual reality.