Usability Testing in the National E-Learning Laboratory (NELL)

NELL is a research facility specialising in usability testing for human computer interactions. NELL allows researchers to systematically explore and improve the use of learning and knowledge-based technologies. The laboratory consists of sophisticated hardware and software that can observe up to four participants simultaneously.

Audio and visual data are recorded using Observer XT technology so we can learn about their behaviour to certain parts of the website or application under study. Mouse and keyboard events are logged in a covert manner using uLog to provide us with further insight into user-system interaction.

User emotion is also recorded using Face Reader technology to provide us with an automatic analysis of facial expressions throughout the observation.

NELL is used in a number of national and international research projects in order to evaluate the user experience of learners. It helps to improve interaction and learning processes. In particular, the eye tracking facility provides interesting insights into the behaviour and cognition in online learning and collaborative learning settings.

Keywords:

Human Computer Interactions; Knowledge Based Technologies; uLog; Face Reader; Interaction; Learning Processes; Eye Tracking