Getting Started with PyGaze Eye-Tracking Software

Research scientist using PyGaze

If you are interested in conducting online cognitive tasks or other behavioral experiments, you may have already heard about PyGaze, an open-source eye-tracking software widely used in psychological research. But how to get started? This guide will show you how.

Getting Started

Beginning with PyGaze for eye-tracking studies is quite straightforward. Simply install the software (all necessary details can be found on PyGaze's official website), and then familiarize yourself with the interface and its functionalities. You might also choose to access a selection of tutorials provided on the website. These tutorials walk you through the process of designing, creating, and running experiments with PyGaze.

Where to Find Help

Looking for more advanced topics or troubleshooting? You should head to the PyGaze forum. This is an excellent hub for both beginners and experienced users, where FAQs, technical discussions, and the latest updates about the software are posted. Additionally, you can find extensive documentation on the Cognition page, a platform dedicated to hosting and running online psychological experiments.

How to Ask Questions

In the process of setting up or running experiments, you may encounter issues that aren't covered by the existing materials. In such cases, it's best to ask questions directly on the PyGaze Forum. When asking, be descriptive about the problem, specify the version of PyGaze you are using, and explain what you have tried so far. This will ensure that you can get a helpful and comprehensive response.

Where to Find Courses

While PyGaze's manual and resources can be very helpful, nothing quite compares to a comprehensive course. Basic and advanced level courses can be found on online learning platforms, such as Coursera or Udemy, providing a structured learning experience with tutorials and assignments.

How to Find Advanced Topics

Advanced topics related to eye-tracking research are often covered in workshops or conferences held by professional institutions or in peer-reviewed articles. Websites like also provide a wealth of information on different paradigms of cognitive tasks that can serve as experimental templates for your own research projects.

How to Connect with the Community

Connecting with others passionate about eye-tracking and psychological research can be highly beneficial for learning and collaboration. Join forums, attend conferences or be part of relevant social network groups to build connections. Remember that the scientific community is a fantastic source of inspiration, ideas, and support in your research journey.

This should give you a good foundation to start using PyGaze and conducting your own research. Remember to always learn, explore and connect. Happy experimenting!

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