Investigating the Effectiveness of Eye Tracking Technology in Augmentative Communication for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that primarily affects muscle coordination and communication abilities, often limiting verbal expression and motor control in children. Eye tracking technology offers an alternative pathway for communication by enabling children to interact using controlled eye movements. The primary objective is to examine the effectiveness of eye tracking technology in augmentative communication for children diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Data were collected from 15 children aged between 5 and 13 years over a 14-week structured intervention program. Each child engaged in guided communication sessions utilizing an eye-tracking communication interface designed to support symbol and word selection through gaze-based interaction. The procedure involved calibration of the eye tracking device, real-time gaze monitoring, and progressive communication tasks such as image selection, sentence formation, and response to teacher prompts. Key analysis variables included Session Duration (SD), Gaze Fixation Accuracy (GFA), Symbol Selection Accuracy (SSA), Communication Response Time (CRT), and User Engagement Levels (UEL). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 25, applying paired t-tests and ANOVA models to compare pre- and post-intervention performance. ANOVA revealed a significant improvement in user engagement level (F = 13.92, p = 0.002). The paired t-test showed symbol selection accuracy increased from a Mean value of post-test 84.2 (p = 0.0001). MANOVA confirmed a strong overall effect with user engagement as the most impacted variable (η² = 0.52). Linear regression identified user engagement (β = 0.57) as the strongest predictor of successful communication. Pearson correlation showed enhanced focus and coordination, particularly between gaze fixation and engagement (r = 0.65). The findings support that eye tracking technology significantly enhances communication efficiency and interaction quality for children with CP, offering valuable potential for broader application in special education and rehabilitative communication settings.