Looking Time — CEU Babylab

Research Methods

Looking Time

Babies – just like adults - tend to look longer at something they find interesting or unexpected.

For example, if a baby sees two toys being put in an empty box, then three toys taken out of the same box, the baby gets surprised and looks longer at this event than at two toys being removed. So measuring looking time can help us discover babies’ expectations about certain events and the outcomes that violate these expectations. During a looking time study we typically show babies some simple videos on a screen. To get an exact looking time measure, we record the baby’s face on video during the session.

Other Research Methods

The Experience

Making an appointment

We invite families to each study separately, usually via phone. We make an appointment with the parents about a week ahead so that everyone can choose a convenient time slot.

Warmup (10-15 mins.)

As families arrive in our center, they meet the person running the study who explains the procedure and the goal of the study in detail and engages the children in play to make them feel comfortable. This takes place in a colourful, friendly reception area.

Study (5-10 mins.)

We escort the family to a separate room where we involve the child in a game or show them a short video, and record their different responses and looking patterns.

Debriefing

After the session we return to the reception area where the children can choose a small gift and we discuss the study with the parents.

Eye Tracking

Behavioral

Online Research

EEG

NIRS

Making an appointment

Warmup (10-15 mins.)

Study (5-10 mins.)

Debriefing