MUUX-E, a framework of criteria for evaluating the usability, user experience and educational features of m-learning environments

Authors

  • Patricia-Ann Harpur
  • Ruth de Villiers

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18489/sacj.v56i1.240

Keywords:

Digital difference, digital divide, evaluation, higher education institutions, ICT4D, M4D, m-learning, usability, user experience

Abstract

Higher education students use mobile phones, equipped for Internet access. Mobile technologies can offer effective, satisfying and accessible m-learning experiences. A contribution has been made to knowledge on evaluating m-learning environments and to mobile human-computer interaction (MHCI), with the innovative synthesis of the MUUX-E Framework, which fills a gap in the domain of m-learning. MUUX-E is a single comprehensive, multi-faceted instrument for evaluating m-learning environments, emphasising usability and user experience in mobile educational contexts. It was developed by extensive literature studies on each aspect, and has five categories, 31 criteria and numerous sub-criteria. Using a design-based research paradigm, MUUX-E was applied iteratively to evaluate and enhance successive versions of m-LR, a mobile application created for a Software Engineering module. Participants were students and expert evaluators. MUUX-E served well to identify problems and strengths. The students were more positive than the experts regarding the benefits of m-LR, yet insightfully reported more system problems.

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Published

2015-07-11

Issue

Vol. 56 (2015)

Section

Research Papers (general)

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