Measuring Subjectivity

Abstract

Since the dawn of the industrial era, modern devices and interaction methods have undergone rigorous evaluations in order to ensure their functionality and quality, as well as usability. While there are many methods for measuring objective data, capturing and interpreting subjective factors—like the feelings or states of mind of the users—is still an imprecise and usually post-event process. In this paper we propose the utilization of the Emotiv EPOC commercial electroencephalographic (EEG) neuroheadset for real-time support during evaluations and user studies. We show in two evaluation scenarios that the wireless EPOC headsets can be used efficiently for supporting subjectivity measurement. Additionally, we highlight situations that may result in a lower accuracy, as well as explore possible reasons and propose solutions for improving the error rates of the device.