Designing Interactive E-Books: A Focus Group Study

Abstract

The design of digital learning resources for specialized domains such as Takaful (Islamic insurance) requires particular attention to usability, cultural sensitivity, and conceptual accessibility. While interactive e-books have gained popularity in education, their application in Islamic finance remains underexplored. This study investigates expert perspectives on the development of an interactive e-book tailored for Takaful education. Using a user-centered design approach, a high-fidelity prototype was evaluated through a focus group discussion with eight subject matter experts from Islamic finance and information communication technology (ICT). The findings revealed that effective content design must include multimedia elements—such as infographics, videos, and audio explanations to support comprehension of abstract concepts. Participants emphasized the importance of contextual relevance, recommending features such as clickable Quranic verses and glossary-linked definitions. Regarding interface design, users appreciated a layout that mirrors traditional reading formats, with consistent navigation and IIUM-aligned visual themes enhancing usability. In terms of interactivity, participants highlighted the value of quizzes with instant feedback, annotation tools, and embedded multimedia for fostering engagement and learner autonomy. These results align with existing literature emphasizing the role of digital glossaries, multimedia integration, and adaptive features in improving reading performance and knowledge retention. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge in educational technology by offering practical design recommendations for culturally responsive and pedagogically sound e-books in the Takaful domain. The insights gained can guide educators, designers, and policymakers in developing effective digital tools for Islamic finance education and public literacy.