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Usability evaluation of the Blackboard Learning Management system at a South African university of technology
Author(s)
Masamba, Lionel-Nathan
Date Issued
2024
Type
Thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
The usability of Learning Management Systems (LMS) was critical for enhancing student
engagement and learning experiences. This study focused on Blackboard Learn, a widely
used LMS at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). It addressed gaps in
understanding the system's usability and its role in promoting Active Learning, aiming to
provide insights into improving digital learning environments.
The main objective was to assess the current usability level of Blackboard Learn at CPUT and
to determine how it could effectively promote Active Learning.
This qualitative study employed user testing sessions and online questionnaires. Data were
collected from students and analysed using NVivo for thematic analysis. Key themes such as
usability challenges, active learning facilitation, and technical issues were identified and
examined.
The findings revealed several usability issues with Blackboard Learn, including navigation
difficulties and technical problems. Despite these challenges, Blackboard Learn was found to
significantly promote Active Learning by facilitating collaboration and engagement among
students.
The study highlighted the importance of addressing usability issues to enhance the
effectiveness of Blackboard Learn. By improving the platform's usability, educators could
better support Active Learning, leading to improved student engagement and learning
outcomes.
This research filled the gap in understanding the usability of Blackboard Learn at CPUT and
its impact on Active Learning. The insights provided could guide the development of best
practices for LMS implementation, contributing to the broader field of digital education and
usability studies.
engagement and learning experiences. This study focused on Blackboard Learn, a widely
used LMS at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). It addressed gaps in
understanding the system's usability and its role in promoting Active Learning, aiming to
provide insights into improving digital learning environments.
The main objective was to assess the current usability level of Blackboard Learn at CPUT and
to determine how it could effectively promote Active Learning.
This qualitative study employed user testing sessions and online questionnaires. Data were
collected from students and analysed using NVivo for thematic analysis. Key themes such as
usability challenges, active learning facilitation, and technical issues were identified and
examined.
The findings revealed several usability issues with Blackboard Learn, including navigation
difficulties and technical problems. Despite these challenges, Blackboard Learn was found to
significantly promote Active Learning by facilitating collaboration and engagement among
students.
The study highlighted the importance of addressing usability issues to enhance the
effectiveness of Blackboard Learn. By improving the platform's usability, educators could
better support Active Learning, leading to improved student engagement and learning
outcomes.
This research filled the gap in understanding the usability of Blackboard Learn at CPUT and
its impact on Active Learning. The insights provided could guide the development of best
practices for LMS implementation, contributing to the broader field of digital education and
usability studies.
Additional information
Thesis (Master of Information and Communication Technology)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2024
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