What do we mean by cognitive load? Towards more accurate definition of the term for better identification by driver monitoring systems.

The 2023 European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) [9] protocol states that Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) should include Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) and appropriate technical assessment dossiers for evaluation by driving authorities. This includes demonstrating how the system can identify elements of driver state; driver distractions, fatigue, and unresponsiveness. Whilst visual distractions have been detailed extensively, cognitive distraction has received less attention within these protocols. Part of the reason for this could be the lack of understanding or general consensus on cognitive distraction within the context of driver state. For example, how do we assess driver state, how do we develop ground truths, how much distraction should be considered too much, and what is and is not considered cognitive? To answer these questions, workshop participants will focus on the methods and metrics used to assess cognitive load and the impact this has on driver state and performance; whether during manual driving, monitoring an automated vehicle, or during takeovers after periods of automation.