The Effectiveness of an Adaptive Interface Framework Based on Dynamic Optic Flow in Mitigating Cognitive Load: An Empirical Study of Cultural Mental Models Among Higher Education Students in Libya

Abstract

This study introduces the Cultural Optic Adaptation Model (COAM), an innovative design framework for educational digital interfaces that integrates optic flow principles with users' cultural mental models to mitigate cognitive load. Adopting a quasi-experimental, between-subjects design, 40 students from the Higher Institute of Sciences and Technology in Libya were divided into two groups: one using a traditional interface and another using the COAM-based adaptive interface. Cognitive load was assessed via the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Results reveal a statistically significant reduction in mental and physical demand for the COAM group (p < 0.05), demonstrating that aligning visual flow with cultural mental models enhances user experience and interaction efficiency. The research offers a robust, culturally-informed design model for developing adaptive digital learning environments.