Designing for Cognition: A Framework for Accessible Communication Technology

Abstract

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, digital tools that help people with speech difficulties communicate through symbols, text, or voice output, show high abandonment rates, leading users to reject devices that could expand their communication capabilities [1]. AAC devices typically require users to maintain spatial-organizational mental models of menu systems in working memory while processing semantic content, selecting appropriate vocabulary, and managing social interaction demands. 

Cognitive load theory explains how excessive extraneous load can interfere with intrinsic cognitive processes [2]. AAC technology requires users to develop navigation expertise before they can communicate basic needs. This cognitive load challenge during communication highlights gaps in how we understand accessibility.

Current accessibility frameworks would benefit from theoretical grounding in cognitive science. Existing approaches like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines focus on technology-specific accommodations for predefined user groups [3]. These frameworks treat cognitive differences as static deficits requiring workarounds, rather than understanding the dynamic cognitive processes involved in human-technology interaction. The result is technology that may meet compliance guidelines while remaining cognitively inaccessible to the people who need it most.

This research proposes a cognitive accessibility framework grounded in cognitive load theory that addresses this fundamental gap. Rather than asking "how do we accommodate cognitive deficits," the framework asks "how do we design technology that supports the cognitive processes essential for communication?" The approach recognizes that cognitive accessibility needs vary based on available cognitive resources, which fluctuate due to stress, fatigue, context, and individual differences. Communication technologies should minimize extraneous cognitive load while supporting the intrinsic cognitive processes that enable meaningful interaction.

The framework applies cognitive load theory's three components to communication technology design: intrinsic load (the cognitive demands of communication itself), extraneous load (unnecessary interface complexity), and germane load (meaningful cognitive processing that supports communication goals). This provides structured principles for analyzing how design decisions affect cognitive accessibility during communication tasks.

Currently, I am developing theoretical foundations for these cognitive accessibility principles through analysis of AAC challenges and communication demands. Initial work reveals systematic patterns in how current assistive technologies create cognitive load conflicts, suggesting that theory-driven design approaches could dramatically improve communication outcomes for users with diverse cognitive needs.

This framework has broader implications beyond assistive technology. The same cognitive load principles that explain AAC challenges may help understand why mainstream technology often overwhelms users during high-stakes interactions – calling emergency services, navigating healthcare systems, or managing financial transactions under stress. By grounding accessibility in cognitive science rather than deficit models, this work provides theoretical foundations for designing communication technologies that work with human cognition rather than against it.

References

[1] J. M. Johnson, E. Inglebret, C. Jones, and J. Ray, “Perspectives of speech language pathologists regarding success versus abandonment of AAC,” Augmentative and Alternative Communication, vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 85-99, 2006.

[2] J. Sweller, J. van Merriënboer and F. Paas, “Cognitive architecture and instructional design: 20 years later,” Educational Psychology Review, vol. 31, no. 2, pp. 261-292, 2019.

[3] W3C, "Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1," 2021. [Online]. Available: https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG21/quickref/.