Balancing cognitive load in AR: Optimizing information density for enhanced user experience

5^th International Congress on AI and Machine Learning

December 09-10, 2024 | Dubai, UAE

Sarah Zaheer

UX Designer, Amazon, USA

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Comput Sci Syst Biol

Abstract :

Statement of the Problem: This work examines the role of cognitive load in the augmented reality (AR) user experience, focusing on keeping information presentation manageable to maximize usability and user satisfaction. As AR technologies continue to expand across education, gaming, and navigation, the spatial complexity of digital overlays imposes significant cognitive demands on users. This study investigates how intrinsic and extraneous cognitive load affect the ability to interact effectively with both virtual and real-world elements. Key design considerations visual hierarchy, spatial alignment, adaptive content density, and contextual cues are explored for their role in mitigating load while preserving core functionality. Through a combination of prior research, physiological data, and user centered experiments, the study identifies design strategies that enhance attention management and improve recall. Further, it explores adaptive interfaces that respond in real time to a user's cognitive state, environmental changes, and task complexity. Effectiveness is measured via user retention, task-completion time, and subjective workload ratings. This research yields actionable insights for AR developers and designers, particularly for high-focus applications such as driver assistance and educational simulations. The findings promote a user-centered AR design paradigm that prioritizes cognitive efficiency and seamless interaction. I would like to begin with an official disclaimer: Due to the sensitive nature of this project and the stakeholders involved, this initiative remains highly classified and confidential until the completion of all phases. While I am providing as much information as possible at this time, it is important to note that contributions to this research extend far beyond what is detailed here.

Biography :

Sarah Zaheer is a UX Designer with a strong background in Human Computer Interaction (HCI). Currently based at Amazon, she leads design initiatives that apply user-centered principles to complex systems at scale. Her work focuses on improving behavioral engagement, simplifying cognitive load, and creating accessible, high-impact digital experiences. With a major in HCI, Sarahs interdisciplinary practice bridges behavioral science, design strategy, and systems thinking. She has led and contributed to high-profile projects such as Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday Cyber Monday events, as well as award-winning initiatives like TrashitRight, which use design to drive sustainable behavior change. Sarahs portfolio spans domains including retail, environmental tech, and mobile interaction design always grounded in her commitment to designing for real human needs and limitations. Her research and design work have been presented internationally and continue to influence UX standards across industries. Outside her core practice, Sarah actively advocates for ethical design in AI and HCI systems and mentors early-career designers, especially women and underrepresented voices in tech.