Usability grading of a learner adaptive system

Abstract

The need for individualised support is important as sizes of classes increase. We present a study of a learner-adaptive system – a system that adapts to improve the learning experience of the user – for spelling in primary school. Together with teachers we have designed and evaluated a specific technique evolution of educational content (first explored by Sklar and Pollack, 2000) that refines spelling exercises based upon the student’s earlier success. The method of triangulation is used to combine qualitative with quantitative measures for determining the usability of the system and evolution of educational content. The usability test derives from Squires and Preece (1999) set of learning with software heuristics – a framework that recognizes the importance of not only design but also learning outcomes. We found evolution of educational content highly usable for spelling training in primary school and as a complement to the conventionally taught curricula. The results showed an increase in spelling ability and demonstrated individualised learning with non-competitive interaction among students.Notably, individualisation occurred in spite of the absence of a student model.