Visual attention of tram drivers as a step towards increasing safety in public transport: a comparative eye-tracking study between novice and expert tram drivers

This paper presents an eye-tracking study capturing the dynamics of ambient and focal attention of tram drivers as an application of modern technology in improving their training. Twenty-three experts and twenty-four novices were invited to take part in the eye-tracking study. We explored the visual attention dynamics of tram drivers while they were watching tram-driving simulation videos. The tram driver’s view: The windshields and control panel were defined as areas of interest (AOIs). In line with expectations, experts were more focused than novices and maintained their concentration for a longer time than novice tram drivers. This difference was significant for regions crucial for monitoring the driving environment (the windshields AOIs). Monitoring drivers’ visual attention gives new insights into the process of gaining expertise in scanning the driving environment.