Cognitive state monitoring for neuroadaptive information visualization

In today's digital world, we face an overwhelming influx of information daily. Information Visualisation (InfoVis) serves as a promising approach to alleviate this "information overload" issue by providing timely, effective, and adaptive visual representations. Despite its potential, previous research has under-explored the critical role of users' cognitive states in facilitating more natural interactions. This article bridges this research gap by first presenting a comprehensive review of current methodologies for assessing cognitive states through neurophysiological signal analysis. Specifically, we focus on InfoVis systems and the effects of certain cognitive states (mental fatigue, mental workload, stress, and mind wandering) on user performance. We also review strategies for assessing these states using non-invasive brain imaging modalities (EEG, fNIRS) and peripheral physiological measurements (HRV, EDA, and eye activity). Our critical analysis identifies the most effective tools for detecting real-time changes in cognitive processes, setting the groundwork for neuroadaptive InfoVis systems that promise enhanced user engagement and decision-making efficacy. Ultimately, this work advances our understanding of perception, provides best practices for multisensory integration in computing systems, and can inspire future technological innovations.