An examination of the perceived usability of the distance education learning management system by instructors: The case of Amasya University

Usability analysis in software has a critical role in creating useful products for users and obtaining the necessary feedback. Learning Management Systems (LMSs) are among the most frequently used software in distance education. The usability of these systems is very important for both student success and the quality of the service offered. The purpose of this research is to examine how the LMS used by Amasya University in distance education is perceived by the faculty members, what the level of usability is and how the issues affecting the usability of the system are evaluated by the faculty members, and to offer suggestions for improvement. In this study using a mixed research design, quantitative data were collected with the 10-item "SUS-TR" scale, and qualitative data were collected with a 5-question semi-structured interview form. The collected quantitative data were examined comparatively with qualitative data. Statistical-based evaluations and content analysis were used to examine the data. While the sample of the quantitative part of the research consisted of 109 faculty members, 9 faculty members took part in the qualitative part. Purposeful sampling method was used in sample selection. According to the quantitative findings of the research, a "below average" value (x̄ = 63.85) was obtained for the LMS usability level. The usability issues obtained from the qualitative findings of the research were categorized under 8 themes and reported with recommendations. The results of this research are limited to the scale applied on the LMS version of the period in which the research was conducted and the opinions of the participants. It is recommended to repeat the usability study on current versions with a larger group of participants. It is hoped that the findings will guide future studies.