Guiding gaze: expressive models of reading and face scanning

Abstract

We evaluate subtle, emotionally-driven models of eye movement animation. Two models are tested, reading and face scanning, each based on recorded gaze transition probabilities. For reading, simulated emotional mood is governed by the probability density function that varies word advancement, i.e., re-fixations, forward, or backward skips. For face scanning, gaze behavior depends on task (gender or emotion discrimination) or the facial emotion portrayed. Probability density functions in both cases are derived from empirically observed transitions that significantly alter viewing behavior, captured either during mood-induced reading or during scanning faces expressing different emotions. A perceptual study shows that viewers can distinguish between reading and face scanning eye movements. However, viewers could not gauge the emotional valence of animated eye motion. For animation, our contribution shows that simulated emotionally-driven viewing behavior is too subtle to be discerned, or it needs to be exaggerated to be effective.