Usability & Reflection

Reflecting on the usability testing process, I conducted testing with science teachers, which provided valuable insights into the course design and usability. While involving science teachers was beneficial, I acknowledge that having a more diverse group of participants, including 7th-grade science students, would have provided a more comprehensive perspective on usability.

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In the future, to better improve the usability testing process, I will aim to involve a broader range of participants, including both students and educators. Collaborating with school administrators and science department heads can help identify suitable participants from the target audience. Additionally, reaching out to neighboring schools or districts can expand the pool of potential testers, ensuring a diverse set of perspectives.

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The platform used for testing, primarily Google Classroom, had a significant impact on the testing and results. Google Classroom's user-friendly interface and familiarity to educators facilitated smooth navigation and interaction with the course materials. However, it also highlighted limitations in customization and flexibility, which could impact the overall user experience.

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From the feedback received during usability testing, I learned valuable lessons about improving the course design. Teachers provided insights into areas where the course navigation could be streamlined, content organization enhanced, and instructions clarified. These insights have informed adjustments to the course layout, instructional materials, and communication methods to improve usability and user experience.

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To address the usability issues revealed during testing, I have made several modifications to the course design. This includes restructuring the course layout for easier navigation, providing clearer instructions and guidance for completing tasks, and incorporating additional support resources within the platform. By implementing these changes, I aim to create a more intuitive and user-friendly learning environment for both students and teachers.

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The testing process has also influenced the alignment of outcomes, activities, and assessment in the course. Feedback from science teachers helped identify areas where learning objectives could be better aligned with activities and assessments to ensure a coherent and effective learning experience. As a result, I have refined the course structure to better align with the intended learning outcomes, enhancing the overall quality of instruction.

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Moving forward, I will continue to prioritize the involvement of diverse stakeholders, including both students and educators, in usability testing to ensure that the course design meets the needs of all users. Additionally, I will explore alternative platforms or tools that offer greater customization and flexibility while maintaining user-friendly features to enhance the overall usability and effectiveness of the course.