The use of gaze to study cognition: limitations, solutions, and applications to animal welfare

Wilson, VAD, Bethell, EJ and Nawroth, C (2023) The use of gaze to study cognition: limitations, solutions, and applications to animal welfare. Frontiers in Psychology, 14. pp. 1-10. ISSN 1664-1078

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Abstract

The study of gaze responses, typically using looking time paradigms, has become a popular approach to improving our understanding of cognitive processes in non-verbal individuals. Our interpretation of data derived from these paradigms, however, is constrained by how we conceptually and methodologically approach these problems. In this perspective paper, we outline the application of gaze studies in comparative cognitive and behavioral research and highlight current limitations in the interpretation of commonly used paradigms. Further, we propose potential solutions, including improvements to current experimental approaches, as well as broad-scale benefits of technology and collaboration. Finally, we outline the potential benefits of studying gaze responses from an animal welfare perspective. We advocate the implementation of these proposals across the field of animal behavior and cognition to aid experimental validity, and further advance our knowledge on a variety of cognitive processes and welfare outcomes.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	animal behavior; attention; looking time; methodology; social cognition; study design; visual bias; welfare indicators; 1701 Psychology; 1702 Cognitive Sciences
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology S Agriculture > SF Animal culture
Divisions:	Biological and Environmental Sciences (from Sep 19)
Publisher:	Frontiers Media
Date of acceptance:	17 April 2023
Date of first compliant Open Access:	20 March 2024
Date Deposited:	20 Mar 2024 14:19
Last Modified:	20 Mar 2024 14:30
DOI or ID number:	10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1147278
URI:	https://ljmu-9.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/22869

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