Usability of multimedia comunications systems in distance learning enviroment

The application of Multimedia Communication Systems (MMCS) in a distance learning environment could provide the optortunity to improve flexibility with regard to the site of learning (at home, at work, in the classroom), the time (each person can learn following his/her own rhythms), the learning way (each person can select his/her way starting from his/her own needs and exigencies). However, there is evidence that the availability of MMCS in a distance learning situation does not ensure their use and adoption by the users. Among the barriers to the diffusion of these forms of distance learning, a lack of attention to the humam factors aspects is a very critical issue. The present paperargues this topic focusing on human factors of MMCS in realising the virtual classroom situation. In particular the following topics are considered: a) the technological opportunities provided by MMCS; b) the role of human factors approach and the main gaps in knowledge in distance learning environment; c) the description of the human factors laboratory available at Fondazione Ugo Bordoni which will be utilised in future investigations on these topics.