Defining Student Needs: How might we enable students to access course information more efficiently through mobile app?
The Pulse app is a way for students to access D2L, an online learning software, It allows students to access course related content and receive push notifications on their phone or tablet, intending for a system more convenient than opening D2L through a web browser.
Pulse (D2L) app project team conducted an onsite usability test at DePaul University libraries in Chicago, IL. I organized testing sessions communicated with participants and team members. Created testing documentation with the team to create cohesive communication throughout sessions. The purpose of the test was to assess the usability of the app’s interface design, information flow, and information architecture.
The Problem
Participants main usage of a school related app was looking up course information and 60% said they mainly wanted to find assignments and grades. All participants agreed that the app was easy to use to find course content and grades, but lacked a cohesive global navigation and setting sections.
Participants were confused with the overall function of the Pulse app in relation to D2L. Usability testing detected a few usability issues including
• The lack of categorization on the course homepage.
• Confusion over app’s function as a portal to D2L .
• Confusion about pulse apps functionality.
• Lack of a section for turning in assignments or posts via the app.
• Lack of menu/setting section.
• Lack of an accessible attendance section.
• Lack of any categorization of notification items on the notification page.
Initial Ideation & Research
During the research I did, I focused on improving the overall experience for students with the various tasks needed to complete course work. An issue that bothered students was the inefficiency of opening D2L via web browser to submit assignments and view course content.
Therefore my goal to find a solution to improve submitting course assignments and viewing course content within the pulse app.
These are the high level findings I took away from my research.
Students want to access course information to quickly check for course updates
If they don’t have access to a desktop students want a more convenient way of looking up course requirements so they can quickly check information and continue.
Students want to submit course assignments through mobile app to reduce time it takes to submit via desktop
If they are commuting to class students want the option to submit assignments more conveniently and quickly.
Lead Usability Testing
Created Moderator Guides
Generated Qualitative and Quantitive Data
Students want cross platform consistency that allows for easy navigation on all platforms
Consistencies between web browser and mobile app will allow for enhanced navigation.