Controlling for Participants' Viewing Distance in Large-Scale, Psychophysical Online Experiments Using a Virtual Chinrest
Overview
Paper Summary
The study introduces the "Virtual Chinrest," a method for measuring viewing distance online using the blind spot. The method was validated in laboratory experiments and used in a large online study (N=1153) replicating previous findings on visual crowding, showing increased crowding with greater eccentricity and in individuals with dyslexia.
Explain Like I'm Five
Scientists found a clever way to measure how far away your eyes are from the computer screen, using a tiny blind spot you have. This helps them understand why sometimes things look squished together, especially for some kids.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This paper presents a novel and potentially valuable tool for online psychophysical research. The methodology is sound, and the validation experiments, although limited by sample size, provide reasonable support for the accuracy of the Virtual Chinrest. The large-scale online experiment successfully replicated established findings and extended them to a more diverse population, which is a significant contribution. However, the limitations regarding the uncontrolled online environment and the reliance on self-reported data warrant a rating of 4 rather than 5.
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