Exploring User-Centered Design and Usability Testing of MathPal: an AI Agent for Math Learning

The Journal of Applied Instructional Design 2026 Book chapter

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Authors: Zilong Pan, Yiwen Wu, Adam Wax, Benjamin Rainey, Faatiha Kalam, Jolie Goldstein, Zilu Jiang, Chenglu Li
DOI: 10.59668/2579.27203
Cited by: 1

Abstract

This study examines the user-centered development of MathPal, a Generative AI (GAI) agent designed to provide conceptual and metacognitive support for high school students. Two rounds of usability testing that integrated voices from both teachers and students guided iterative refinements of MathPal’s design and interaction flow. Findings highlight how user-centered design principles can inform GAI development, ensuring that tools align with classroom needs, learner behaviors, and real-world usability expectations.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Intelligent Tutoring Systems and Adaptive Learning Teaching and Learning Programming Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods

Publication details

Journal / source
The Journal of Applied Instructional Design
Publisher
The Journal of Applied Instructional Design
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN
Document type
Book chapter