Progressing with Eye Gaze

Eye gaze technology allows people to control a computer or communication device using only their eyes. It opens up new possibilities for independence, learning, and play - but it takes time, practice, and the right strategies to get the best results. This guide will take you from mastering the basics, through progression to advanced use, with examples of how eye gaze can be used in everyday life.

1. Mastering the basics

When starting out with eye gaze, the focus should be on comfort, positioning, and familiarity.

• Positioning: Make sure the device is slightly below eye level, angled up towards the user's eyes, and free from glare or reflections. Good positioning is key to tracking accuracy (see image below).
• Calibration: Each user is different - run the calibration carefully and repeat as needed. A good calibration makes eye tracking smoother and more accurate.
• Simple Targets: Begin with software that uses large, colourful targets to practise looking and selecting. Games with cause-and-effect activities (look at the balloon → balloon pops) are excellent starting points.
• Short Sessions: Eye control can be tiring. Start with short, enjoyable sessions and gradually increase over time.

2. Building Skills & Progression

Once the basics are in place, the next step is to develop control and accuracy.

• Smaller Targets: Progress to activities that require more precise eye movement and longer dwell times.
• Timing & Patience: Practise holding gaze steadily before a selection is made - this builds accuracy and reduces false clicks.
• Exploration: Encourage free exploration of the screen so the user learns how their eyes move the cursor.
• Motivation: Use activities that the user finds fun and rewarding, whether that’s drawing, music, or interactive stories.

3. Advanced Use

As confidence grows, eye gaze can become a full access method for communication, education, and control.

• Communication Software: Eye gaze works with many AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) programs, allowing users to build sentences, chat, and express themselves.
• Education & Work: Users can navigate websites, write documents, and participate in online learning.
• Independence: With practice, eye gaze can replace the mouse for everyday computer use.

4. What else can Eye Gaze do?

Eye gaze isn’t limited to communication and computer access - it can connect to the wider world.

• Environmental Control: Linked with smart home technology, users can turn lights on/off, control the TV, or open doors with their eyes.
• Toys & Play: Eye gaze can activate adapted toys and games, supporting inclusive play and social interaction (see video below).
• Art & Creativity: Eye-controlled drawing and music software allow for self-expression. Users have created digital paintings and even composed music with just their gaze.
• Gaming: Some mainstream games now integrate eye gaze as an input method, offering new opportunities for play and competition.

5. Tips for Success

• Make sessions enjoyable and user-led.
• Involve family, carers, or teaching staff so everyone understands the system.
• Keep trying different software and activities - variety keeps learning engaging.
• Be patient: mastery takes time, but the rewards are worth it.

You may also find our free guide to Eye Gaze in the Classrom useful.

If you need any assistance or have any questions about eye gaze, our Information Manager (Ian Loughlin) will be happy to help: [email protected].