Mobile-First eLearning for Food Safety: Usability, Knowledge Acquisition, and Performance in Fast-Casual Settings

This mixed-methods Learning Experience Design (LxD) capstone study investigated the influence of a mobile-first eLearning module on new food handlers' self-reported perceived usability and demonstrated knowledge of critical food safety principles within the dynamic fast-casual restaurant sector. The instructional problem addressed was the inconsistent and insufficient application of precise food safety knowledge and practices among new hires, which poses significant risks to public health and business operations. The research was guided by two key questions: "To what extent do specific interactive design features within a mobile-first eLearning module impact new food handlers' self-reported perceived usability during food safetytraining?" and "What is the effect of a mobile-first eLearning module on new food handlers' demonstrated knowledge acquisition of critical food safety practices?". The study involved a pilot program with 9 newly hired food handlers recruited through a strategic partnership with a local fast-casual restaurant. Data were collected using several instruments seamlessly integrated into the Google Classroom platform, including a Perceived Usability Questionnaire (Google Forms) and a Food Safety Knowledge Assessment (Google Forms) for quantitative data, as well as Practical Application Video Uploads (Google Classroom) and Interactive Discussion Prompts for qualitative data. The findings revealed that the module was highly effective in promotingknowledge acquisition and was perceived as highly usable by participants. The average perceived usability scores were consistently high, and all participants achieved knowledge assessment scores of 78% or higher. However, the study also identified limitations, including sparse qualitative feedback and technical issues with video submissions, which suggest a lack of engagement with the reflective components. The conclusions drawn from this research indicate that mobile-first eLearning is a highly effective and strategically efficient solution for addressing the food safety knowledge gap in a time-constrained environment. However, future iterations should focus on enhancing opportunities for critical thinking and practical application through embedded, low-stakes reflection activities. The implications of this research suggest that Learning Experience Design principles, particularly those emphasizing usability and contextual support, can be applied to other vocational training contexts to improve learning outcomes and organizational performance.