Enhancing Learner Experience through Interface Design

Oct 22

In instructional design, learner experience (LX) plays a crucial role in the success of eLearning modules. LX refers to the practical aspects of how learners interact with content, which affects their engagement, emotions, and attitudes. As the Association for Talent Development (ATD) points out, LX is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about how, when, where, and why learners engage with content. Factors like collaboration, application, and meeting the learner’s needs all shape this experience.

One key issue that can negatively impact LX is poor user interface (UI) design. Jakob Nielsen, co-founder of Nielsen Norman Group, introduced “10 Usability Heuristics for User Interface Design” in 1995 to address these issues. Though created for websites, these heuristics widely apply to eLearning design. Nielsen’s heuristics, such as feedback, consistency, and error prevention, are rules of thumb meant to guide design and improve the overall user experience.

So, how do we, as learning designers, apply Nielsen’s heuristics to ensure a seamless learner experience? Let’s look at a few visual examples.

Source: Lawson, L. (2024). Usability Heuristic Principles for eLearning [Graphic]. Canva. https://www.canva.com/design/DAGSPSlD2YE/uh84KkxEcTHGotjESX134wLinks to an external site.

By critically considering these factors, you can ensure that your eLearning modules not only convey knowledge but do so in an engaging, effective, and learner-friendly manner.

Thank you for joining me today! Let’s keep learning altogether, as lifelong #LearningMatters.

Best,
Laura Lawson
LearningMatters, LLC
Instructional Designer

Laura Lawson

Enhancing Learner Experience through Interface Design

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