PLFest: A Cross-Platform Application for Accessible Vision Assessment and Training

Boris Penaloza¹, Marcello Maniglia², Jaap Munneke¹, C. Shawn Green³, Aaron Seitz¹; ¹Northeastern University, ²Rochester Institute of Technology, ³University of Wisconsin-Madison

Here we introduce a new software platform (PLFest) to promote large-scale, multi-site Perceptual learning (PL) research. PLFest addresses critical challenges in reproducibility and accessibility that stem from the current state of affairs wherein individual research labs typically use different equipment and software to support their research. To address these limitations, we developed a Unity-powered, cross-platform application enabling use across computers, tablets, and smartphones. This architecture enables consistent performance across platforms while maintaining precise stimulus control for robust psychophysical measurements. PLFest supports a comprehensive set of visual assessments including visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual search, reading performance, and cognitive abilities. It also implements multiple contrast sensitivity training paradigms, including adaptive staircases, noise training, collinear flanker configurations, and stimulus variety protocols. PLFest offers extensive flexibility in experimental design, allowing researchers to manipulate trial structure, presentation duration, response types, and stimulus parameters. From a user interface and display design perspective, PLFest addresses key technical challenges in delivering precise visual stimuli across diverse display hardware. The application handles display calibration, timing precision, and contrast control across different screen technologies and resolutions. This cross-platform consistency enables standardized protocols supporting reproducibility efforts and data sharing initiatives in PL research. PLFest represents a significant advancement in accessible vision science technology, positioning PL research for big-data approaches and offering opportunities for remote testing, large-scale studies, multi-site collaborations, and potential clinical applications. By making sophisticated vision assessments available on widely accessible consumer devices, PLFest bridges the gap between laboratory research and real-world applications.