Usability Testing of VLASTWA: A Vocabulary and Strategy Teaching Web App

Abstract

While vocabulary learning is one of the challenging tasks of language learning, it is considered indispensable for language mastery. Vocabulary learning presents similar challenges for professionals who need to master new terminology and definitions. The use of technology has been seen to effectively support learners in the vocabulary learning challenges. In this paper, the usability and learnability of a bespoke web app, VLASTWA, is assessed in terms of usability, effectiveness and pedagogical efficacy. VLASTWA was designed and implemented utilizing effective and extensively researched vocabulary learning technique, the keyword method. In this experimental study, participants (n=160, age = 18-60) learned to use the keyword method and employed it in new vocabulary learning (Persian-English) using VLASTWA. VLASTWA experimental web app performed well in a usability study using System Usability Scale with a rating of 91.5%. Results demonstrated the web app as a usable and efficient instrument in acquiring new vocabulary and future research will investigate the inherent use of the designed web app for different population, other languages and sets of words and emerging technologies such as augment reality and virtual reality and electroencephalogram.