Improving accessibility and inclusiveness of university websites for international students: a mixed-methods usability assessment

ABSTRACT

Using a unique triangulation of a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and observational techniques, this research investigated international student perceptions of the usability, interactivity and inclusiveness of a university website. The research was guided by the activity theory. Qualitative data were analysed to understand international student perceptions of usability and interactivity in relation to their intentions to use the university website. Additionally, findings established the significance of making university websites more inclusive as international students continue to face increasing uncertainties owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and racial inequalities in the USA and worldwide. Observational methods provided methodological and data triangulation. This research offers guidance for future research on higher education digital learning tools based on integrated theoretical mixed methods and also provides managerial implications for academic institutions in the design of student-centred and inclusive websites.

KEYWORDS:

• Human–computer interaction
• educational websites
• mixed-methods research
• international students
• eye-tracking

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Vaibhav Shwetangbhai Diwanji

Vaibhav Shwetangbhai Diwanji is an Assistant Professor in the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas. He obtained his PhD in Communication from Florida State University. He has an MS in Integrated Marketing Communications from Florida State University and an MBA in International Business and Marketing from the Auckland University of Technology. His research interests include human–computer interaction, new media technologies, innovative pedagogies, consumer behaviour, strategic communication, social network analysis, and diversity and inclusion.