While this is common in academic environments, the underlying challenge is broader. Any setting that relies on complex systems — whether in manufacturing, research, or maintenance — faces the same constraint:
How do you prepare people effectively when access to the system itself is limited?
To explore this question, a pilot project was initiated with Another Set of Eyes.
The goal was not to replace hands-on training, but to rethink what happens before it. Instead of using valuable in-person time for explanation, the idea was to move foundational knowledge earlier in the process—so that physical interaction could focus on application.
A demo application was developed combining two complementary technologies:
The demo application combines structured training videos with advanced eye-tracking technology, capturing where experts focus during real tasks to make their attention and decision-making visible to learners.
By showing exactly what experienced personnel notice and prioritise, the videos reduce ambiguity and convey tacit knowledge that is difficult to communicate through traditional instructions. Integrated quizzes immediately validate understanding, ensuring that foundational concepts are absorbed before participants even step in front of the machinery.
This approach allows learners to internalize critical decision-making patterns in advance, making in-person sessions far more efficient and effective.
This approach addresses a common gap in technical training:
Much of what experts know is tacit—it’s not written down, but expressed through where they look, what they prioritise, and how they interpret situations.
The pilot was designed for rapid deployment. From the first eye-tracking recordings to the delivery of the initial application, the process took less than four weeks.
Content was captured on-site in the LIT Factory, ensuring relevance and realism. This fast turnaround also demonstrates the flexibility of combining multiple technologies into a single solution that adapts to real-world training environments.
One of the most notable shifts was in how attention is guided. In traditional settings, instructors point or gesture to highlight key areas — eye-tracking allows this to happen naturally and precisely, even when direct interaction is restricted.
Beyond the university, this approach is relevant wherever limited access to complex systems creates training challenges. Potential applications include:
The principle is simple: capture expert knowledge once, reuse it consistently, and make learning more effective.
The demo application is under evaluation at the LIT Factory. Based on results, further development and broader integration into training processes will be considered.
“I highly appreciate the excellent cooperation with the team at Another Set of Eyes during the development of the demo app. I am confident that the app has the potential to simplify the introduction of students to highly complex machinery.”
Dr. Klaus Straka
Head of JKU LIT Factory
The support, the experience, and the system’s simplicity are all part of it.
