Module 2.2: Browsing Experience

Usability of Websites

Readability

• Importance of text being easy to read.
• Best practices in HTML coding:
  • Avoid using multiple fonts.
  • Use headings, short paragraphs, columns.
  • Incorporate bulleted lists.
  • Group related ideas together.
  • Prefer sentence case over uppercase.
  • Use backgrounds that are easy on the eyes (avoid bright colors like lime green or shocking pink).

Navigation

• Ease of moving through the site.
• Links should:
  • Work correctly (no broken links).
  • Be short and descriptive.
  • Follow a consistent and standard format.

Consistency

• Maintain the same basic layout, colors, fonts, and themes across the site.
• Consistency aids in easier navigation and reduces user confusion.

Layout

• Ensure the layout is suitable for the intended audience.
• Adapt text and graphic objects to fit standard monitor sizes and resolutions.

Typography

• Fonts should be:
  • Easy to read.
  • Match the content.
  • Commonly used.
  • Limited in variety.
• Consider browser compatibility with different fonts.

Factors Affecting the Browsing Experience

Speed

• Pages should load quickly.
• Avoid large files that slow down loading times.

Privacy

• Web activity is not always private.
• Websites may record preferences; Facebook and Google analyze activity.
• Risk of malware and spyware.

Spyware

• Monitors and tracks computer usage.
• Builds a user profile for targeted advertising.
• Can steal login details via key loggers.

Adware

• Free software displaying constant ads.
• Requires ad blocking software for prevention.

Evaluating Websites

Fake News

• Created to misinform or deceive readers.
• Profitable for online publishers.
• Fake news can mimic trusted websites.

Clickbait

• Sensationalist headlines to generate traffic.
• Often fabricated stories to attract visitors.

Propaganda

• Articles aiming to mislead and promote a biased point of view or agenda.

Best Practices for Evaluation

• Look beyond the headline.
• Check other sources and verify facts (fact-checking).
• Be aware of personal biases.

Questions to Consider

• Is the story credible?
• Could this be a joke or satire?

That's it for Module 2.2.