open access article
Eye-Gaze Tracking Technology (EGTT) is used most commonly as a communication tool for learners with profound and
multiple learning difficulties (PMLD). This research investigates the use of EGTT as an assessment tool to provide additional
evidence to confirm teacher assessment. The paper contributes to how teachers can address the barriers faced upon
assessing students with PMLD through the use EGTT. Data was obtained from a sample of four students with PMLD and
physical disabilities located within a special needs school. The qualitative methodology ensured a triangulation of data
collection, which included analysis of learners’ heat maps, parent questionnaires and observations of teaching via video
capture. It was found that the eye-tracking data provided information on individual learner’s engagement with the learning
objectives, which otherwise could not have been communicated. The innovative technology provided an independent data
source to inform the teacher’s assessment of the learner’s cognitive abilities. Overall EGTT enabled a more accurate method
of teacher assessment of PMLD students’ abilities, giving teachers more confidence with their judgements by providing robust
evidence to underpin their professional practice. Where schools want to invest in tools which deliver, this research can guide
SEN leaders/schools in deciding potential investment in EGTT equipment and how to use it as an assessment tool.