wesleyp's blog

DNA From the Beginning (Type: Simulation, Format: Shockwave)

1. Ease of use and navigation.
   For a non-technical person, I find the navigation to be pretty straight-forward. The categories run vertically down the right hand side, and the “in-depth” information runs horizontally across the bottom pertaining to the topic that is currently selected.
2. Cognitive load.
   I like the way the content is written, as most of it is not common sense, but it is not too technical or advanced to understand. The organization of the information into steps also helps the user take in bits of information at a time.
3. Knowledge space and information presentation.
   The module is set so that the links and information flow, and each topic is presented step by step; or a user can skip around to what they choose to learn about next.
4. Media integration.
   The multimedia is good overall as it all loads quickly, and the animations are short and effective. Some of the video clips have low audio quality the presenters are a little dull.
5. Aesthetics.
   The text is readable and the images are sized well, but I think they overall layout could be improved. I think that users are used navigation down the left hand size, and slides with multiple images scroll left to right instead of being thumbnails that re-size when clicked. The background and text colors used could also be improved.
6. Overall functionality.
   I think that all of the information and functionality is there, but it could use some updating visually. The layout is usable, but I think it could be better if the navigation was moved to the left. I also think that more engaging video clips would help, as I had a hard time giving them my full attention. Finally – at a glance, the white and blue theme works, but after spending more than a few minutes working with the module, it could use a new background color. I think white is tough to look at for long periods of time.

MecMovies (Type: Tutorial, Format: Flash)

1. Ease of use and navigation.
   This module’s navigation is easy to use. Some categories have a “more movies” button that sort of hides the additional movies at first glance. I like that the categories are on the left hand side, and the content being reviewed is “center-stage.” The arrows between slides are useful, but a little hidden until you get the hang of the flow.
2. Cognitive load.
   Most of the content is written in a pretty non-technical manner so it is easy to understand; but some slides do contain a lot of numbers and symbols that make that information a little overwhelming and confusing. Also, with 9 chapters and multiple movies in each, the module as a whole covers a lot, and the amount of time given to complete this module is an important factor in understanding the overall cognitive load.
3. Knowledge space and information presentation.
   Like mentioned above, if taken chapter by chapter over a period of time, the information seems to be spaced and presented well. The module as a whole, however, seems like a lot to digest if moving from beginning to end.
4. Media integration.
   The animations are very useful and compliment the text. The load time between movies isn’t bad on a high speed connection, but using dial up or a lower end DSL connection may be a different story. The graphics are technical drawings, but useful in understanding the text.
5. Aesthetics.
   The background color chosen is great, as it is not white, and it is easy on the eyes. The movies and slides flow nicely within the module, and it was designed similar to a clean webpage, so it felt “familiar.”
6. Overall functionality.
   I feel that this module does what it was designed to do. It breaks up the information into more manageable pieces, and it incorporates animations and graphics to increase the comprehension. It is a lot of information beginning to end, and it would nice if it included a glossary or anchors to allow for a quick review of certain topics.

Neuroscience for Kids (Type: Collection, Format: HTML/text)

1. Ease of use and navigation.
   This page has lots of information, but it is presented in a fun and easy to use way. The links are straightforward, and the navigation is consistent. I like how the anchors jump down to more in-depth categories.
2. Cognitive load.
   There is a ton of information available, but it is organized in a manner that keeps you engaged. The information is broken down, and it uses examples and comparisons that almost anyone can follow.
3. Knowledge space and information presentation.
   The presentation of information is great, and you know what you are getting with each link or topic that you choose. It is much better than having a breakdown of chapters like the last module.
4. Media integration.
   The media is targeted appropriately; towards kids. The imagery is helpful and relevant.
5. Aesthetics.
   Keeping the target audience in mind, the aesthetics are pretty good. Black text on a white background isn’t the best for lots of reading, but it seems to work with this module.
6. Overall functionality.
   Overall, I would consider this a great module. The links are useful, the layout is easy, and the information is great. I also love that it has a search option that the previously reviewed modules lack. It is a feature that hadn’t even crossed my mind until I saw it utilized in this module.