A systematic review of eye-tracking methods for studying visual attention in urban public spaces

Abstract

In the context of human-environment interaction and built environmental behaviour research, eye-tracking (ET) has emerged as a methodological tool for examining visual perception in urban public spaces. This systematic review follows the PRISMA 2020 framework and examines 76 peer-reviewed records (73 primary empirical studies and 3 reviews) retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science between 2015 and 2025. The 73 primary studies form the basis of the quantitative synthesis of methods, devices, sample sizes, and indicators, while the reviews were retained only for thematic and bibliometric mapping. The methodological quality of the 73 primary studies was appraised using two complementary tools: design-matched Joanna Briggs Institute checklists for risk of bias and a purpose-built eye-tracking reporting-quality checklist, revealing that most studies are sound in design yet report eye-tracking procedures incompletely. A sharp increase in eye-tracking research has been observed after 2020. Beyond identifying research trends, indicators, focus areas, devices, and methodological approaches, this study synthesizes the analytical pipeline through which raw gaze data are transformed into spatially interpretable behavioural metrics, presented as a methodological recommendation distilled from the practices of the included primary studies. The findings highlight methodological limitations and the underrepresented contexts, such as nighttime and culturally sensitive environments. By consolidating the findings, the study highlights opportunities to integrate eye-tracking into evidence-based evaluations and decisions in the design of an inclusive built environment.