Eye-tracking Support for Architects, Conservators, and Museologists. Anastylosis as Pretext for Research and Discussion

Abstract

Conservators, museologists, and architects make extremely complex decisions capable of affecting the way people perceive monuments. One might give this idea deeper consideration while pondering anastylosis, which should be done in such a way that it is possible to recognize the original and newlyadded elements. The definitions in force do not, however, explain how to make such a distinction. By using eye-tracking research, we can learn how observers look at historic objects that have been reassembled again. By combining the observation of visual behaviours with a survey of people looking at such objects, it is possible to see how the process of classifying what is new and old actually works. This knowledge allows for both a more conscious approach to heritage management process and pro-social design of exhibitions at archaeological sites, museums, and virtual reality.

The Potential of Using an Eye Tracker in Architectural Education: Three Perspectives for Ordinary Users, Students and Lecturers

“…The ideas mentioned above seem so basic that they should not raise any doubts. However, it is possible to notice the reluctance of a large number of professionals toward the participatory and pro-social nature of some architecture-related research [12].The results mentioned at the beginning [1] and the authors' other data collected during eye-tracking tests regarding anastylosis, looking at museum interiors, and the perception of depth in churches [13][14][15] suggest that such research should not be treated as a fad or a scientific whim [16], but rather a necessary act of cleansing the didactic contents included in the syllabuses of various architecture faculties from theories constructed on the basis of sheer intuition. Other scholars have also noticed the discrepancies in this respect [17].…”