Awareness of Ergonomics in User Interface Design of Instructional Web Sites

Computer Technology together with a web-based life is no longer a preference. The Internet provides a wide variety of resources, among which, web sites designed for instruction require special attention on the basis of ergonomics and user interface design. This study is concerned with the interface design of instructional sites for children aged 8–12. When designing for children, basic design principles may not be satisfactory to achieve a pleasant solution. A technically proficient end product that efficiently operates bright colours, larger fonts, animations and sound may not be instructive at all unless it takes the learning process into consideration. Current research indicates successful learning experiences must personally engage each student with active rather than passive participation. Even if the World Wide Web (WWW) is defined as boundless and immeasurable, still the instructional materials on the web need to be agreeable with the real world educational criteria. Awareness of ergonomics appears to be necessary not only for the design team who is to form the end product but also for the end users- children, parents and teachers in this case.