Designing virtual learning environments for people with learning disabilities: usability issues
Helen R. Neale, Sue V. G. Cobb, John Ross Wilson · 2000
www.virart.nottingham.ac.uk The Virtual Reality Applications Research Team (VIRART) has been developing communication and experiential Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) for people with learning disabilities since 1991. As a human-factors-based research group, we have always been aware of usability issues and the importance of consideration of user needs and abilities in any design development process. However, the infancy of VR for use by the general public and lack of VE applications, particularly for special needs users, has meant that there are few examples of usability studies and a general lack of design guidelines. This paper outlines design considerations in development of virtual learning environments and highlights usability issues identified via observation of users with learning disabilities. Specific usability problems were identified relating to communication, navigation and interaction. Examples are given and recommendations for VE design guidelines are suggested. 1.