I Am Not a Caveman: An Eye-tracking Study of How Users are Influenced to Search in the Era of GenAI

This paper explores the evolving nature of information-seeking behavior in the era of Generative AI (GenAI), questioning whether we are witnessing a generational shift in how people search for information. We propose a methodology for the first phase of our research focusing specifically on user interfaces for information access with Large Language Models (LLMs). We plan to utilize eye-tracking to analyze user interactions with search engines displaying AI-generated content before the traditional ten-blue links, followed by an engagement scale to capture the user experience. The aim of conducting the first phase is to understand how users interact with new search engine interfaces that incorporate GenAI content, assess their willingness to scroll past GenAI content to view the traditional ''10 blue links' and explore how these interactions differ from existing literature on scanning search engine interfaces. Finally, we outline future directions to deepen our understanding of search behavior in the age of GenAI.