User Experience on E-learning Platforms in Higher Education

Abstract

Abstract Even though Covid-19 facilitated the move towards e-learning, research on the user experience (UX) of e-learning platforms has been limited, particularly regarding its cognitive and emotional outcomes. Considering this gap, this study proposes a non-invasive method for assessing emotional effects related to e-learning platforms. The study involved an experiment with 23 university students and compared the effectiveness of a real-time face and eye detection methodology (MIORA) with a retrospective questionnaire (SAM) in understanding the emotional responses elicited by the user-platform interaction. To examine the consistency between the two tools, the authors intentionally introduced usability issues in the system to observe students' emotional reactions. The study's results confirmed the research hypothesis that real-time non-invasive tools for assessing emotional reactions are more comprehensive and reliable than the SAM questionnaire. Furthermore, these tools enable dynamic adaptations to the site's usability and interface based on the student's emotional reactions, potentially improving satisfaction and learning outcomes. The findings inform future research on how emotional responses to e-learning platforms can impact user experience and learning outcomes. Ultimately, this study offers a foundation for understanding the emotional outcomes of e-learning and how they can be effectively assessed to improve online and hybrid education.