The Elements of Interface Design

Interface design encompasses three distinct, but related constructs--usability, visualization, and functionality (Vertelney, Arent, & Lieberman, 1990). Recently, a fourth component of interface design has emerged as a critical factor--accessibility. Interface design is most often associated with the development of Web pages, computer software, and multimedia, but is relevant to the creation of any instructional media or technical equipment. A rating form is available for evaluating computer interfaces.

• planning your presentation (flow, navigation)
  
• navigation samples
  
• about scaffolding
  
• heuristic evaluation

II. Visualization
is creating visually interesting and aesthetically pleasing media items while avoiding potentially distracting or unncessary "bells and whistles."

• about visuals and icons
  
• about text
  
• working with color
  
• screen design and layout

III. Functionality
refers to the features of your media item and how useful they are for supporting a given task (e.g., interactive simulations, drill and practice quizzes, site maps, frequently asked questions, search engines).

• types of tools

IV. Accessibility
is an emerging Web interface design topic; if not addressed, it will negatively influence Web site usability for users with certain disabilities; tools that help users access your site in alternative formats (e.g., text, aural, visual) provide for increased functionality

• barrier-free Web design
• Web accessibility