Employing Affordance-Based Design to Improve the Usability of E-Learning User Interfaces

Abstract

Given that a user interface interacts with users, a critical factor to be considered for improving the usability of e-learning content user interface is to design a more affordable user interface. Most studies on affordance are limited to the examination for the affordance of e-learning tools rather than the systematic design of such affordance. Using the approach of Maier and Fadel’s affordance-based design methodology as a framework, the researchers identified affordance factors, developed affordance strategies and the user interface, and evaluated the user interface prototype. In addition, the effects of affordance design strategies on usability were examined. Implications are suggested for designing strategies that enhance affordances of user interfaces of e-learning contents.