Toward A Novel Framework for Evaluating the Usability of Web-Based Learning Applications

Abstract

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a framework for evaluating the usability of Web-Based Learning Applications (WBLAs). The framework was selected considering relevant previous studies in usability field and web-applications. The methodology used in this study consists of three steps: (1) framework development, (2) usability testing to validate and refine the framework stages and to determine the metrics of usability as factors and criteria and weights for their, and (3) draw a conclusion and make some recommendations. The selected framework has nine stages Specify usability evaluation goals; a determine of web-learning applications aspects to evaluate; select usability metrics; select evaluation method/s; select tasks; testing design, capture usability data, analyze and interpret usability data; and present usability results. The result of this study a selected framework of the usability evaluation of WBLAs is needed in order to help ensure good usability. While this framework will have the obvious benefit of making the WBLAs easier and more pleasurable to use, consideration of usability in the application design will also have a significant impact in reducing lifecycle cost, and it has the benefits of (1) improved user experience and productivity, (2) a higher probability of system success, and (3) lowered system lifecycle costs for all stages of application developing. The study recommended studying more metrics and using blended usability evaluation techniques in to find cover problems of usability for web-based learning application in the future.