Readability Measures as Predictors of Understandability and Engagement in Searching to Learn

Abstract

Search engines have become essential tools for learning, providing access to vast amounts of educational resources. However, selecting the most suitable resources from numerous options can be challenging for learners. While search engines primarily rank resources based on topical relevance, factors like understandability and engagement are crucial for effective learning as well. Understandability, a key aspect of text, is often associated with readability. This study evaluates eight commonly used readability measures to determine their effectiveness in predicting understandability, engagement, topical relevance, and user-assigned ranks. The empirical evaluation employs a survey-based methodology, collecting explicit relevance feedback from participants regarding their preferences for learning from web pages. The relevance data was then analyzed concerning the readability measures. The findings highlight that readability measures are not only reliable predictors of understandability but also of engagement. Specifically, the FKGL and GFI measures demonstrate the highest and most consistent correlation with perceived understandability and engagement. This research provides valuable insights for selecting effective readability measures to tailor search results to the users’ learning needs.