The use of highlighted green buttons to signify preferred options (preferred, that is, from the point of the website) is known generically as a 'dark pattern' whereby the website is trying to manipulate its users. This article argues against their use. "Even if 'dark patterns' were to go against the law, it is unethical to manipulate your users by design." And Pernille Tranberg has a point, because dark patterns work against the choices users have, choices often enshrined in law (such as the right to decline cookies without penalty). In learning technology, however, designers are expected to manipulate the learner, so they follow the most effective path in their learning. So the ethics change. But how much do they change? When does manipulation in learning design become harmful or unethical?
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