The Influence of Aesthetics in an E-learning Environment

Abstract

This study sought to explore the influence of aesthetic considerations upon learning in an e-learning environment. The findings, while inconclusive for a notable gain in summative assessment scores between the high- and low-aesthetic study groups, did provide insight into practical guidelines that faculty and course designers can employ when designing e-learning environments. Given the advent of touch screens, smart phones, tablets, and smaller screen real estate on which learning can take place, designers are provided with numerous opportunities for exploration of the topic of aesthetics. As technological affordances expand and devices become more ubiquitous, the ID field will necessarily become even more focused upon the user and their experience.