A comparative analysis of the meaning of 'learnability' for child and adult users

Abstract

The learnability principle relates to improving the usability of software, as well as users' performance and productivity. The principle was formulated mainly with adult users in mind and, although children are an important user group, fewer guidelines exist for their educational and entertainment applications. This study compares the groups, addressing the question: 'Does learnability of software interfaces have different meanings for children and adults?' A literature survey on learnability and learning processes, considered the meaning of learnability across generations. In an empirical study, users from 9-12 and from 35-50 were observed in a usability laboratory while learning to use educational software. Eye tracking data was also recorded. Insights emerged from the analysis, showing different tactics when children and adults use unfamiliar software, and revealing how they approach interfaces differently. Our re-interpretation of the learnability principle and the resulting design recommendations should help designers determine the varying needs of users of different ages, and improve the learnability of software designs. © 2011 IADIS.