Courseload

Usability Validation of eTextbook Software

Project Overview

I led the UX research efforts from persona development, to cost analysis, as well as conducted a laboratory usability study to validate the implementation of Courseload, an e-texbook software for students and faculty.

My Contributions

Designed a usability study centered around lowering the cost of textbooks by allowing students to instead purchase e-texbooks that are compatible with mobile devices and tablet computers. Compiled quantitative and qualitative data and presented findings and summative report to the VP of Academic Affairs.

Texas State University

User Experience and Usability Engineering Intern

Jan 2013 - May 2013

In the Spring 2013 semester, the M.A. in Technical Communication (MATC) program participated in the Texas State University pilot project with the use of electronic textbooks "e-texts," and in particular, the use of a software program called Courseload. E-texts in Courseload are not just for reading content; Courseload has certain features such as allowing users to highlight passages, post notes, bookmark pages, and do online collaborative work.

I spearheaded a semester-long “real-world” project styling the use of e-texts and Courseload by surveying other students who represented various user personas, researching, analyzing data, and compiling and reporting what I found as we began using and testing out Courseload at the first of the semester. I approached the experience of using e-texts and Courseload with an open mind and a neutral attitude, and then ultimately let the data speak for itself.