College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department

Advisor

Duha Ali, College of Engineering, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Funding Source

Cal Poly's College of Engineering Dean's Innovation Fund, Paul & Sandi Bonderson, Kim Vorrath, The Sprague Foundation, and the IME Department

Date

10-2025

Abstract/Summary

As artificial intelligence tools become integral to everyday tasks, understanding how users interact with these systems is essential for improving user experience and system design. This research aims to investigate and compare the interface usability and emotional responses elicited by three prominent AI tools—ChatGPT, DeepSeek, and Google Gemini—using the Emotiv Insight EEG headset. By combining usability testing with emotional biometrics, this study offers a novel approach to evaluating conversational AI systems. The study will capture both subjective usability metrics and objective emotional markers such as arousal, valence, and engagement. Participants will complete standardized tasks using each AI tool, while their EEG data is recorded. A follow-up usability questionnaire (e.g., SUS or UEQ+) will assess perceived interface quality. The goal is to identify which AI system provides the most user-friendly and emotionally positive interaction, contributing to the development of emotionally adaptive AI interfaces.

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URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/ceng_surp/157

 

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