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Article published In:
Information Design Journal
Vol. 27:3 (2022) ► pp.235–277

The power of information design in enhancing the organization of information and course material in an online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

ORCID logo | University of Leeds , UK
| University of Leeds , UK
ORCID logo | Beijing Institute of Technology
| Yorkshire Cancer Research
| Taif University
| University of Leeds , UK

The way information is organized and designed on virtual learning environments (VLEs) is poor (e.g., unclear, unattractive and overwhelmingly dense). This study evaluates and redesigns a VLE platform to enhance access to information and course material. A three-stage user-centred mixed-methods research approach was used with students taking part as co-creators of education, researchers, designers and end-users. Results show that performance was significantly better with two layouts designed following information design principles and a user-centred research process, than with the existing layout. Participants’ opinion also reflected this same trend. A set of guidelines to improve the design of VLEs is provided.

Keywords: information design, co-design, eye-tracking, performance testing, Virtual Learning Environment
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Stage 1 | Identification
    • 2.1Survey of existing material
    • 2.2Online questionnaire with tutors
    • 2.3Interviews with students
      • 2.3.1Specific problems and improvements
    • 2.4Co-design with students as co-creators of education
      • Announcements
      • Staff information
      • Module information
      • Module catalogue
      • Learning resources
      • Reading list
      • Assessment
      • Media
    • 2.5Design guidelines
  • 3.Stage 2 | Integration and Development
    • 3.1Rationale for design solutions
      • 3.1.1Design 1 | Redesigned Layout
      • 3.1.2Design 2 | Ideal Layout
    • 3.2Usability testing and iteration
      • 3.2.1Initial design concepts
      • 3.2.2Final design outputs
  • 4.Stage 3 | Evaluation and Validity
    • 4.1Participants
    • 4.2Procedure and materials
    • 4.3Performance results
      • 4.3.1Time
      • 4.3.2Accuracy
      • 4.3.3Eye-tracking
    • 4.4Opinion results
  • 5.Information design guidance for courses on a VLE
    • 5.1How to design the main menu?
      • Guidelines
      • Rationale
    • 5.2How to design an announcement?
      • Guidelines
      • Rationale
    • 5.3How to design the staff information page?
      • Guidelines
      • Rationale
    • 5.4How to design the module information page?
      • Guidelines
      • Rationale
    • 5.5How to design the learning resources page?
      • Guidelines
      • Rationale
    • 5.6How to design the assignment page?
      • Guidelines
      • Rationale
  • 6.Discussion and conclusion
  • Acknowledgements
  • References
Published online: 6 December 2022
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/idj.22001.lon
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