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Improving the Design of Virtual Learning Environments from a Usability Study

Abstract:

Usability as an area of knowledge of Computer Science closest to the user, has seen enhance their interest and development in recent times, due to the diversity of devices and forms of interaction. At the same time, educational institutions, aware of the potential existing in new technologies, and the disruption caused, invest their resources in the implementation of virtual learning platforms. In this investment, they seek diversify in the tools that allow the development of new teaching strategies, which are ubiquitous and continuous, adaptable to the needs of the user. In this context, a usability study is carried out, sustained in the method of inquiry with the questionnaire technique, following the proposal of Ferreira & Sanz in 2009, measuring the parameters of Satisfaction, Learning, Operability, Attractiveness, Content and Communication. The best results are obtained in the Learning and Content indicators, and with lower scores the Operability, highlighting in the latter the low value in the Accessibility and Availability indicators. According to the results obtained, a proposal for improvements is proposed, in order to achieve a greater degree of usability in the mentioned environment. Finally, these improvements are implemented in the case study, making a new evaluation of users in order to validate the improvements made.