Exploring Algebra Nation's Usability: Augmenting Traditional Usability Testing Methods With Eye Movement Analysis

• In Event: K-12 Perspectives on Technologies + Pedagogies

Abstract

This study examined the usability of Algebra Nation™, an online system for learning mathematics used by hundreds of thousands of students. Thirty-five undergraduate students (20 females) completed five usability tasks in the Algebra Nation™ online learning environment. Participants' eye movements were simultaneously recorded by an eye tracker while they interacted with the system. Usability testing software was used to capture all participants' interactions with the system, task completion time, and task difficulty ratings. Upon finishing the usability tasks, participants completed the System Usability Scale. Augmenting the traditional usability testing methods, eye movement analysis provided additional insights regarding revisions to the interface elements associated with these tasks. Several usability problems were identified and solutions to these problems were suggested.

Authors

• Jiahui Wang, Kent State University

• Pasha Antonenko, University of Florida

• Mehmet Celepkolu, University of Florida

• Yerika Jimenez, University of Florida

• Ethan Fieldman

• Ashley Fieldman, Study Edge