Written Communication
XX(X) 1–35
© 2013 SAGE Publications
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DOI: 10.1177/0741088313491692
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Article
Keystroke Logging in
Writing Research: Using
Inputlog to Analyze
and Visualize Writing
Processes
Mariëlle Leijten
1,2
and Luuk Van Waes
2
Abstract
Keystroke logging has become instrumental in identifying writing strategies
and understanding cognitive processes. Recent technological advances have
refined logging efficiency and analytical outputs. While keystroke logging
allows for ecological data collection, it is often difficult to connect the
fine grain of logging data to the underlying cognitive processes. Multiple
methodologies are useful to offset these difficulties. In this article we explore
the complementarity of the keystroke logging program Inputlog with other
observational techniques: thinking aloud protocols and eyetracking data. In
addition, we illustrate new graphic and statistical data analysis techniques,
mainly adapted from network analysis and data mining. Data extracts are
drawn from a study of writing from multiple sources. In conclusion, we
consider future developments for keystroke logging, in particular letter- to
word-level aggregation and logging standardization.
Keywords
keystroke logging, writing research methods, Inputlog, cognitive processes,
multiple sources
1
Research Foundation–Flanders, Antwerp, Belgium
2
University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
Corresponding Author:
Mariëlle Leijten, University of Antwerp, Faculty of Applied Economics, Department of
Management, Prinsstraat 13 (Z 506), B 2000 Antwerp, Belgium.
Email: marielle.leijten@ua.ac.be
491692WCX XX X 10.1177/0741088313491692Written CommunicationLeijten and Van Waes
research-article 2013