You are here

Evaluation

15 January, 2016 - 09:49

A usability evaluation of the prototype was undertaken by Bouras, et al. 2006 in order to validate the design of EVE prototype. Research studies (Montoya et al., 2011; Lin et al., 2010; Kirkwood, 2010; Peter et al., 2010; Bouras et al. 2008 and 2006; Dalziel, 2003) suggest that the objectives of the usability evaluation are to: (a) assess usability problems with the EVE interface, and (b) investigate more requirements of the end users in order to improve the functionality of the EVE prototype. These studies report that the general impressions by most of the end users participating in the research were positive.

The concept of EVE prototype has been rated as a promising solution for collaborative e- learning. It was felt that the 3D metaphor of a virtual classroom is a useful approach to support synchronous e-learning, particularly for small groups of learners. Moreover, the simplification of the user interface using 3D metaphors, the support of different file formats, and the use of audio communication channel are the main factors for the general acceptance. Furthermore, the ease of the user interface utilization of the prototype has been rated as positive. The users indicated that they got along well with the system. However, they stated that the interface of the 2D tools need improvement (e.g., the buttons for the avatar gestures should be replaced by icons). This is in addition to the need for improving the error tolerance of the system.