Make E-Learning Effortless! Impact of a Redesigned User Interface on Usability through the Application of an Affordance Design Approach

Abstract

Given that a user interface interacts with users, a critical factor to be considered in improving the usability of an e-learning user interface is user-friendliness. Affordances enable users to more easily approach and engage in learning tasks because they strengthen positive, activating emotions. However, most studies on affordances limit themselves to an examination of the affordance attributes of e-learning tools rather than determining how to increase such attributes. A design approach is needed to improve affordances for e-learning user interfaces. Using Maier and Fadel's Affordance-Based Design methodology as a framework, the researchers in this study identified affordance factors, suggested affordance design strategies for the user interface, and redesigned an affordable user interface prototype. The identified affordance factors and strategies were reviewed and validated in Delphi meetings whose members were teachers, e-learning specialists, and educational researchers. The effects of the redesigned user interface on usability were evaluated by fifth-grade participating in the experimental study. The results show that affordances led users to experience positive emotions, and as a result, use the interface effectively, efficiently, and satisfactorily. Implications were discussed for designing strategies to enhance the affordances of the user interfaces of e-learning and other learning technology tools.