Development and Usability Evaluation of PostHarvest EDU: An Interactive Practical E-Module for Postharvest Technology Courses

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technology has substantially transformed teaching and learning practices in higher education, particularly in the delivery of practical-based courses. In postharvest technology education, conventional printed laboratory manuals often lack interactivity and flexibility, which may constrain students’ understanding of experimental procedures and reduce engagement during practical sessions. This study aimed to develop an interactive practical e-module, PostHarvest EDU, and to evaluate its usability among undergraduate students enrolled in a postharvest technology course. The e-module was developed using the ADDIE instructional design model, encompassing the phases of analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. A quantitative usability evaluation was conducted with 59 undergraduate students who enrolled in Postharvest Technology Course at Sultan Idris Education University. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing ease of navigation, content understanding, and interactivity in learning. Descriptive statistical analysis revealed very high mean scores for ease of navigation (M = 4.48), content understanding (M = 4.49), and interactivity in learning (M = 4.55). Overall, 98.3% of respondents reported positive learning experiences when using the e-module. These findings indicate that PostHarvest EDU demonstrates a high level of usability and effectively supports students’ understanding of postharvest experimental procedures. The study concludes that interactive practical e-modules can serve as effective digital teaching resources for practical-oriented agricultural courses and contribute meaningfully to enhanced teaching and learning practices in higher education.