Author:
Adebayo Adebiyi | Symphony of Knowledge
WP-2026/01
Abstract
This working paper examines how the usability of interactive systems can be systematically measured and demonstrated, with particular attention to the implementation of user-discovery research in the design of user interfaces (UIs) within learning design and interactive systems for educational technology (EdTech) projects that support formal learning and enhance engagement. Usability has been defined in terms of effectiveness and efficiency, but its operationalisation through user satisfaction still receives less attention in EdTech contexts. This limitation is especially critical, as the assessment of usability must also address the optimisation of the user experience, which, in turn, can ensure meaningful learning outcomes. The paper reviews existing frameworks for measuring the usability of interactive systems and identifies key dimensions, including effectiveness, efficiency, satisfaction, and learnability, as metrics. It then discusses the importance of a user-discovery approach combined with the Iterative Design cycle as qualitative metrics, which are fundamental to meaningful assessment of quantitative performance metrics, that usually focus on how well the system/solution actually works. Based on the findings from the empirical study conducted on user-discovery, the paper proposes an integrated evaluation perspective that includes an iterative loop and insight into metrics, extending traditional usability assessment to incorporate user-discovery research. This approach positions the usability measurement of an interactive system as a multi-layered construct encompassing user experience, interaction quality and educational impact. Hence, it contributes to the mainstream body of research by offering a structured foundation for a mixed-methods approach to evaluating interactive systems in learning design and human-computer interaction in education, and by highlighting the need for orderliness in usability metrics for efficient trade-off decisions.
Link:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19860179
Citation
Adebiyi, A. (2026). User-Discovery Research as the Foundation for Designing and Measuring Usability of Interactive Systems. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19860179
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