Exploring User Experience: Theoretical Insights into Dark and Light Mode Interfaces

As digital interfaces grow more prevalent in daily interactions, particularly during the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0), the choice between dark and light modes has received significant attention. This study addresses the research problem of understanding the impact of different interface modes on user experience in educational contexts, particularly in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education. The objectives are to investigate the influence of dark and light mode interfaces on user experience, evaluate student preferences and effects, and identify any gender-specific preferences. Through qualitative interviews with 5 to 10 Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam students, initial findings reveal a strong preference for dark mode, associated with comfort and reduced eye strain, particularly in dimly lit areas. Conversely, light mode is preferred for tasks requiring good readability and sustained concentration. The study also identifies gender-specific preferences that influence overall user experience. These findings underscore the significance of user-centred design in digital interface selection, highlighting the necessity to adapt digital environments to user needs to enhance educational outcomes and user satisfaction.