We developed the MEGA (Memory Episode Gaze Anticipation) paradigm to study human memory, moving beyond traditional reliance on verbal reports. By using eye-tracking technology, we measure anticipatory gaze, revealing memory retrieval independent of report. The MEGA paradigm utilizes tailored short film clips featuring surprising events. Upon repeated viewing movie clips, eye gaze patterns anticipating salient events can quantify their memory traces. In five experiments, we showed that eye gaze is a reliable measure of memory retrieval in single trials and correlates with various classical verbal memory methods. Finally, anticipatory gaze reveals beneficial effects of sleep on memory retrieval independent of verbal report. This approach is particularly beneficial for populations with limited verbal abilities, offering a deeper understanding of how memory is formed and accessed.
Anticipatory eye gaze as a marker of memory
