Relevance of the User Action Framework and Heuristics to E-Learning

Abstract

Electronic learning, or e-learning, uses the power and flexibility of the Internet and CD-ROM delivery systems to provide online instructional content. In this paper, we examine two usability inspection methods, the User Action Framework (UAF) developed by Andre, Hartson, Belz, & McCreary (2001) and heuristics developed by Jakob Nielsen (1994). Although not specifically designed for e-learning, both methods can be adapted to evaluate e-learning environments. The UAF provides a hierarchical structure and a framework for the systematic examination of usability issues. Heuristics provide guiding principles for evaluating user interfaces. While both inspection methods lend themselves to evaluating e-learning interfaces, we believe the UAF to be a more complete method for addressing e-learning usability issues.