Open AccessDefining the Visual Complexity of Learning Management Systems Using Image Metrics and Subjective Ratings
Author(s) -
Brenda M. Stoesz,
Mehdi Niknam,
Jessica C Sutton
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
canadian journal of learning and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1499-6685
pISSN - 1499-6677
DOI - 10.21432/cjlt27899
Subject(s) - learning management , perception , visual learning , computer science , psychology , visual perception , complexity management , cognitive psychology , multimedia , neuroscience , business , marketing
Research has demonstrated that students’ learning outcomes and motivation to learn are influenced by the visual design of learning technologies (e.g., learning management systems or LMS). One aspect of LMS design that has not been thoroughly investigated is visual complexity. In two experiments, postsecondary students rated the visual complexity of images of LMS after exposure durations of 50-500 ms. Perceptions of complexity were positively correlated across timed conditions and working memory capacity was associated with complexity ratings. Low-level image metrics were also found to predict perceptions of the LMS complexity. Results demonstrate the importance of the visual complexity of learning technologies and suggest that additional research on the impact of LMS design on learning outcomes is warranted.