User-Centered Design on Metacognitive Training System: A Case in Algorithm and Data Structure Course

Metacognitive training system (MTS) is a computer-based learning system aimed at developing students’ metacognition. Metacognition is needed to develop students’ self-regulation which is required for learning complex topics such as algorithm and data structure (ADS). Previously, we develop an MTS to support algorithm-learning. However, the approach tends to be technology-centered, thus, producing low usability score. Therefore, this paper proposes an incorporation of user-centered design (UCD) into the development of the MTS to produce a more usable system. As a result, new information architecture, wireframe, and user interface design are obtained. Finally, the system usability testing is conducted to compare two versions of the MTS, i.e. older and newer version. The result shows that the newer version has higher usability scale. In addition, the newer version of the MTS shows a positive impact on a real learning situation, indicated by the significant difference on students’ performance between control and experiment group.