The purpose related to this dataset is to investigate the state of visualization in ERP (Event-Related Potential) research. The investigation was conducted through an online questionnaire administered via LimeSurvey Community Edition v5.4.7, hosted by the University of Stuttgart. The survey was designed to gather information about participants' experiences and opinions regarding ERP plotting tools, color mapping, etc.
This dataset consists of responses collected from the online questionnaire conducted between January and July 2023. The survey attracted participants from various sources, including academic communities, social networks, and conferences. To encourage participation, the researchers offered the chance to win Muse-2 devices as an incentive. The dataset is anonymous and was ethically approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Stuttgart. Participants were asked for informed consent, informed of their privacy rights, and allowed to withdraw from the study at any time.
The dataset includes a total of 425 responses, with the detailed analysis focusing on the 213 responses that completed the questionnaire. It should be noted that this survey used a convenience sample and did not investigate the reasons why respondents dropped out. The survey was divided into four sections covering participant background, tool usage, color mapping awareness, and feedback. The questionnaire was designed to adapt based on respondents' previous answers, resulting in different response rates for different questions. In addition, participants were informed of the purpose of the survey, opt-out options, and opportunities to enter a drawing or receive research updates. The dataset also includes a link to a second survey for those interested in further engagement and a list of publications related to the color map perception controversy. This controversy relates to the fact that not all colormaps are suitable for scientific visualization. There are three reasons for this: 1) unnatural order - the order of colors in the colormap does not correspond to the innate sense of higher or lower; 2) perceptual change is not uniform - one color appears to change faster while another changes slower; 3) colorblind people cannot see colors in the colormap Moreland (2015).