Abstract:
The research intended to develop a framework for improving
the usability of Learning Management Systems by integrating
pedagogical agent. The study adopted usability heuristics [1]
as the key factors for enhancing the usability of an LMS
through a conversational pedagogical agent. The first
objective explored various techniques available for enhancing
the usability of the LMS. The techniques includes
Learnability, efficiency, and satisfaction are but a few
techniques used to measure usability of a web-based system.
The second objective examined a variety of ways the
pedagogical agent can improve the usability of the LMS. The
research recognized that a pedagogical agent could improve
the usability of an LMS by making studying more interesting
and increasing student to instructor interaction to support
active learning. The third objective was for the designing of a
suitable framework for improving the usability of an LMS.
The fourth objective intended to evaluate the impact of the
computer-based pedagogical agent in the LMS. The research
established that the conversational pedagogical agent
increased human to computer interaction, makes learning
more effective and enjoyable and supports self-paced active
learning. An experimental research design was adopted in
carrying out the research. A conversational pedagogical agent
(Melsyanne) was deployed as a prototype to improve the
effective use of an LMS. The target population comprised of 3
HODs, 12 Instructors and 82 Students from three randomly
selected higher learning institutions within Nakuru
Municipality. Data was collected using questionnaires and
analyzed through frequencies and percentages using SPSS.
The results were presented using tables, column graphs and
pie-charts generated by MS Excel application software. The
findings constitute the knowledge pool, from which future
research can borrow and add in their research study.
