Computers in Human Behavior Reports (May 2025)
Exploring students’ perceptions of the design and use of the Moodle learning management system
Abstract
Universities have been utilizing various synchronous and asynchronous methods embedded in digital learning tools to continue the teaching-learning process. Among these tools, known as learning management systems (LMSs), Moodle holds a distinct position due to its scalability, user-friendliness, and ease of use. However, despite its widespread adoption, there is a lack of focused research evaluating factors that influence Moodle adoption and usage in university environments, particularly in developed countries. This lack of investigation is critical because even minor usability shortcomings can lead to reduced student engagement, lower satisfaction, and hindered educational outcomes. Therefore, there is a pressing need to explore students' experiences and feedback regarding Moodle's design, layout, and overall usability to enhance its effectiveness and better align with contemporary educational demands. In this study, we collected students' insights regarding the design and layout features of the Moodle system and whether these features play a decisive role in the adoption or discontinuation of the Moodle LMS. An open-ended questionnaire was used to collect the opinions of 103 university students who were enrolled in several courses conducted online using Moodle as the primary LMS. Qualitative data analysis was conducted and seven major themes related to the factors influencing the success of the Moodle LMS were identified. Key findings reveal that usability issues, such as system features and content design quality, significantly hinder student experiences, while positive aspects, such as overall satisfaction and usefulness, highlight areas of strength. The implications for educators, system administrators, and policymakers are discussed, along with limitations and future research directions. This study not only addresses a critical gap in the literature but also offers practical insights for enhancing LMS effectiveness in e-learning environments.
