The effect of worksheets prepared according to the visual design principles on learning outcomes of students

In this study, it is aimed to examine the effect of English worksheets designed in accordance with the visual design principles used in higher education on English teaching. Partially mixed sequential dominant status design was used in this research. As data collection tool, an academic achievement test (four basic language skills, grammar, vocabulary), Motivation Scale, questionnaire and interview form applied to students and instructors, personal information form were used. The study group is consisted of four sections' students studying in the English Preparatory Education Unit of a university in Çankaya in Ankara and their four instructors. As a result of the study, it was found that four basic language skills, grammar and vocabulary levels of the students to whom the worksheets designed in accordance with the visual design principles were applied increased. The data obtained from the personal information forms shows that the designed worksheets do not contribute to the students' average weekly working time outside the school. As a result of the Motivation Scale application, it was seen that the designed worksheets played an active role in increasing the students' motivation levels for the English course. Findings from the questionnaire and interview forms indicated that the students have found the new worksheets more organized, understandable, heartwarming, motivating, entertaining and interesting. Besides, the instructors found the new worksheets as spacious, useful, motivating, organized, easy to follow and the images as attractive, simple and understandable. Keywords: worksheets, visual design principles, material design, English teaching, higher education, English curriculum, English preparatory education