Evaluation of Educational Authoring Tools for Teachers Stressing of Perceived Usability Features

Abstract

In this study, perceived usability of educational authoring tools was analyzed with participants who have different subject matter expertise and content development experience. The analyzed authoring tools were Microsoft LCDS, Course Lab and GLO Maker. These tools were analyzed with six participants through a user test which was developed by the researchers in terms of ease of use, learnability and user satisfaction. Participants’ self-reports and interview form data were analyzed qualitatively. Based on the research findings, Microsoft LCDS was found to be more usable than others in terms of ease of use and learnability. Course Lab authoring tool was perceived as not easy to use and learn. GLO Maker's ease of use and learnability properties were found to be good but limited when compared to Microsoft LCDS. Finally, all authoring tools were perceived positively in terms of user satisfaction with sub-categories of learning, controlling, design, satisfaction and productivity.