DMASC: a tool for visualizing user paths through a Web site

In an e-learning environment it is crucial that accurate Web usage data can be collected and analysed to ensure that on-line learning material is optimally structured and designed. In this paper we investigate the relationship between cached and non-cached Web log files as we identify and analyse user paths through an e-learning Web site. We outline the development of a web data mining and data visualization tool DMASC (Direction Mapping and Sequence Chart). We also demonstrate, using a set of test data, how our mining and mapping methods can be used to reveal otherwise unseen Web design flaws.