Does Aesthetics of Web Page Interface Matters to Mandarin Learning? (1101.1608v1)

Abstract: Aesthetics of web page refers to how attractive a web page is in which it catches the attention of the user to read through the information. In addition, the visual appearance is important in getting attentions of the users. Moreover, it was found that those screens, which were perceived as aesthetically pleasing, were having a better usability. Usability might be a strong basic in relating to the applicability for learning, and in this study pertaining to Mandarin learning. It was also found that aesthetically pleasing layouts of web page would motivate students in Mandarin learning The Mandarin Learning web pages were manipulated according to the desired aesthetic measurements. GUI aesthetic measuring method was used for this purpose. The Aesthetics-Measurement Application (AMA) accomplished with six aesthetic measures was developed and used. On top of it, questionnaires were distributed to the users to gather information on the students' perceptions on the aesthetic aspects and learning aspects. Respondents for this study were students taking Mandarin course level I at UiTM Terengganu. A significant correlation of the aesthetic aspect was found with its relevance to Mandarin learning. In summary, aesthetics should not be ignored or overlooked in designing effective learning interfaces for educational purposes.