Usability, Ergonomics, and Extensibility Comparison of Computer Network Trainers for Basic Computer Network Learning Media

Abstract

The use of computer network trainers has become a major preference in vocational education because it is proven to be better than computer network simulation software. However, the use of existing computer network trainers (Desknet Trainer and Netcube Trainer) becomes overlapping in the domain of basic computer network courses. A comparison study was conducted in the aspect of usability, ergonomics, and extensibility to find out which trainer was the most suitable for handling basic computer networking courses. A quasi-experimental method with a counterbalanced design was chosen to compare computer network trainers. The T-test was conducted with the results stating that the data significance value was greater than the significance level (0.241 > 0.05). Then H<sub>0</sub> is accepted with results stating that the two computer network trainers proved equal in handling basic computer networking learning. With such results, no recommendation can be drawn as to which trainer is superior. Both computer network trainers are allowed to be used together in basic computer network courses.