Methods for Evaluating Interface Design for Online Learning Environments

Authors

Constance A. Lowe, University of New Mexico
Charlotte Nirmalani Gunawardena, University of New MexicoFollow

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

2004

Abstract

Designing online learning environments poses many challenges. One critical issue is the design of appropriate user interfaces so that the interface does not become a barrier to the learning process. The interface of a web site may be described as the sum of the visible (and/or audible) elements which convey to a user what functions and resources are available at the site and provide access to, or control over, those functions and resources. The interface is a key element of usability, where usability means the ease or difficulty with which the user can complete the intended tasks. Following a brief discussion of the context in which instructional web site evaluation has evolved, this paper will discuss four techniques the authors have found useful. These are use of a heuristic during the design process, use of target participant interviews, use of a participant response form, and usability testing.

Publisher

Open University of Hong Kong Press

Publication Title

Distance Education and Technology: Issues and Practice

First Page

160

Last Page

169

Language (ISO)

English

Keywords

Interface design, online learning environments

Recommended Citation

Lowe, C. & Gunawardena C. (2004). Methods for evaluating interface design for online learning environments. In D. Murphy, R. Carr, J. Taylor, & T. Wong (Eds.), DistanceEducation and Technology: Issues and Practice (pp.160-169). Hong Kong: OpenUniversity of Hong Kong Press.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.

Comments

Pre-print version.