Exploring user interfaces to improve learning outcomes

The concept of information landscapes has been a constant theme in the development of interactive multimedia packages. For the interface and access to this information to be effective and efficient, consideration must be given to the cognitive load placed on the user. Improvement in learning outcomes can be supported by allowing students to focus on metacognitive processes as a component of performance support built into the interface. The renewed interest in student-centred learning environments and the move to constructivist paradigms place responsibility for learning firmly within the control of the student, but this responsibility fan only result in improved learning when appropriate support is available and the necessary skills can be developed with students. This paper examines these issues in the context of the development of a CD-ROM-based interactive multimedia package, Investigating Lake Iluka, and reviews evaluation of the learning outcomes from initial use of the package.