Application of the Cognitive Walkthrough Method to Evaluate the Usability of PhET Simulations Package to Teach Physics

摘要

The use of simulators and customized applications for educational use opens new possibilities in the teaching and learning process of the most varied disciplines through computer-mediated interactions. In this context, teachers are developing digital material considering this powerful tool. And the use of educational apps and simulators has increased significantly with the spread of the internet in schools. However, the evaluation of the effectiveness of these applications is complex and incipient. This article presents a proposed interface usability assessment for the use of simulators with elementary school students using a customized version of the PSSUQ, along with an evaluation by the cognitive walkthrough method. The interface chosen was the simple pendulum simulator used as part of the PhET simulations package. The results indicated satisfactory usability of the application, although some limitations and usability difficulties were found.