RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN USER INTERFACE DESIGN ON STUDENTS’ ONLINE REGISTRATION CHALLENGES AT TARABA STATE POLYTECHNIC, SUNTAI
Keywords:
Digital literacy, Online registration, Polytechnic students, User interface, Usability, User-centered designAbstract
This study investigates the relationship between user interface design in shaping students’ online registration experiences at Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai, with a focus on usability, technical challenges, digital literacy, and suggested improvements. Digitalization has transformed administrative processes in Nigerian tertiary institutions, yet online registration systems often present usability barriers that hinder task completion and reduce user satisfaction. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting 350 students across five schools, with data collected from 332 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Analysis involved descriptive statistics and thematic interpretation of open-ended responses. Findings reveal that students face significant usability challenges, including difficulties navigating the portal, locating information, and understanding instructions, which reduce registration efficiency. Technical and interface design deficiencies, such as slow page loading, system errors, unclear layout, complex navigation, and limited mobile responsiveness, further impede successful registration. Students’ digital literacy levels moderated their interactions, with higher skills facilitating smoother registration, while lower skills increased reliance on assistance. Students recommended interface simplification, improved server performance, clearer error messages, and the addition of a help or FAQ section, reflecting strong support for user-centered design improvements. The study concludes that addressing usability, technical, and digital literacy challenges through targeted interface redesign and student training is essential for enhancing registration efficiency, reducing frustration, and promoting equitable access. These findings provide institution-specific insights to inform system upgrades, optimize user experience, and support effective digital transformation in academic administration.
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