Don’t make me think, help me learn
We keep hearing about the importance of usability. Why is it so important? The answer is: to make your learner comfortable, confident and productive! We are challenged to develop a clear, easy to use and understandable interface. We must speak the learner’s language and be consistent.
Learners should not waste their time wondering…
- Where should I go?
- How should I start?
- Where is this chapter or content?
- Where to begin? What is important?
- Under each section did they put references and resources?
The course interface should be easy to scan, navigate, with clear defined areas, links, diminishing as much noise as you can. Do not make the learner frustrated with unimportant aspects, wondering and guessing where to go, muddling through, this part of the process should be effortless and pass unnoticed. Create a clear visual hierarchy, follow the Web conventions and standards. Leave to learners time to learn the content, not waste their attention and minutes teaching how to use your application.
References: Steve Krug, Don’t Make me Think;
Michael Allen, Guide to e-learning.