As web-based experiments become increasingly popular, the need for accessible, efficient research methods is greater than ever. However, current open-source frameworks sometimes lack detailed documentation, leaving many novice researchers struggling to create their experiments without significant time investments in learning the required technical skills. To meet this demand and further the capabilities of web-based experiments, we propose AVOKE—a diverse set of experimentation plugins and extensions built on top of jsPsych, an open-source JavaScript library for web-based behavioural experiments. AVOKE includes the code and documentation needed for novice researchers to easily integrate a variety of audiovisual stimuli in their experiments. Currently, AVOKE supports temporally-precise presentation of audiovisual stimuli (e.g., external media sources like YouTube, moving objects, etc.), as well as the collection of behavioural responses, like keypresses and video capture (e.g., for recording face videos or participants). All features have been developed according to jsPsych standards and validated through numerous tests developed using simulate functions.
Audio-visual-button-response
This plugin allows for displaying an image and playing an audio file simultaneously, and records responses generated with a button click. The included parameters allow for adjustment of trial duration, visual stimuli size, time delay before the button can be interacted with and more. The trial can be set to end when a button response is received or after the audio stimulus is finished playing.
Fixed-point-calibration
This plugin implements a fix-point calibration trial used for eyetracking experiments. A target ('E' by default) appears in random locations on a blank canvas based on whether the canvas is split into a 3x3 or 4x4 grid. The target will appear in random orientations of 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees. The participant must look at the target and respond with an arrow key by default, with the correct direction corresponding to where to lines of the 'E' are headed. After a correct response, a new target will appear. If using a 3x3 grid, 9 targets will be presented. If using a 4x4 grid, 16 targets will be presented.
Smooth-pursuit-calibration
This plugin presents an image target that moves along a path with a shape and pace determined by the experimenter. The target will begin moving after a keypress and the trial will end when the target finishes travelling along the path.
