Positive partnerships web space usability

What does the think aloud protocol tell us?

Abstract

“Positive Partnerships” is a flexibly delivered, government supported training initiative, which incorporates an interactive learning platform customized for Australian teachers, parents, and carers of school aged students with autism. This cohort forms a diverse working group, possibly requiring more accommodations than the norm, so it is essential to determine whether the site meets their varying needs. In the current study a “Think aloud” protocol was used to determine the usability of the site for participants with varying computer access and competence. It was found that most of these users quickly accomplished a range of online activities and enjoyed the site’s interactive nature and its time-saving features. It was concluded that the site should be promoted, and its potential would be maximized with deeper menus, an internal search capability, and explicit information about generic computer functions.