Cognitive Architecture: The Intersection Of UI Design, Mental Models, And Digital Sustainability

Abstract

This article explores the convergence of user interface design and cognitive psychology and digital sustainability, with the suggestion that expertise-specific UI concepts are a key solution to building more efficient and environmentally aware digital experiences. The article will illustrate how interfaces that are set to achieve a certain level of user expertise and integrate design paradigms like minimalism, adaptive interfaces, and emotion-responsive systems can bring about a reduction in cognitive load and the use of computational resources at the same time. The article compiles the results of various fields to form the links between cognitive effectiveness and environmental sustainability and points to interfaces being inherently sustainable in digital ecosystems due to less time spent on interaction, lower error rates, and better use of available resources. The article also examines wider implications on digital inclusion, compliance, and performance of an organization, as expertise-specific design is discussed as a multidimensional approach to not only human but also environmental goals in an increasingly digital world.