Understanding e-Learning
Mobile learning is used in users' downtime
My team explored Cisco U to gain a deeper understanding of the processes of learning for and getting a certificate. We also researched how mobile learning can be utilized in synergy with the desktop application.
We found that mobile learning is valid in a supplemental environment, such as downtime during commutes or at home. Focusing on material retention is essential when designing for the mobile learning environment.
Interviews
Users want a supportive environment & a way to structure their time
I led interviews with five professionals who have studied for and received a certificate. My goals were to learn the journey of obtaining a certificate and the resources they use to do so.
Users expressed interest in learning from other materials such as videos and seminars. They also enjoy being able to create goals and tasks lists to maintain a schedule with their day to day job.
“It was helpful to attend live seminars or ask people who have already taken the course.”
“Thinking about my future goals and wanting to stay up-to-date with the rapidly changing tech industry helps me hold myself accountable.”
“Just reading the materials isn’t helpful in self-paced learning. I do a lot of secondary studying, like watching YouTube videos on the material or listening to podcasts and seminars on the topic.”
Comp. Analysis
Competitors allow for peer discussion & peer-to-professional communication
My team was interested in exploring creating a supportive environment for learners. We looked to learning apps such as Duolingo and LinkedIn Learning to understand how they foster peer-to-peer or peer-to-professional interaction.
Leading learning apps allow for in-app discussions on content, peer and professional communication with tutoring sessions or a forum, and use community centered wording.
Duolingo allowed for learners to discuss with each other for questions.
Rosetta Stone has the ability to schedule a tutoring session with a professional. The app also lets users engage with their peers via voice channels to talk in their learned language.
LinkedIn Learning's wording is community centric, showing learners that they are no alone in their learning.
Ideation
Narrow down features to address learners' needs
From our prior research we understood there were three main needs for learners. A way to hold themselves accountable while studying, a way to structure their time, and a supportive environment when learning.
Goal Setting
Allowing users to choose days to study and their preferred study method.
Calendar
Users can:
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Visualize study times and set goals
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Add multiple courses
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Q&A Forums
Learners will have support in understanding course content.
Peers and professionals can respond to questions.
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Concept Testing
Current ideas are useful but look overwhelming
My team wanted to understand how effective these features would be in a mobile landscape and the ease of use for each.
We found that users were enthusiastic for these features. However, when presented with sketches, they were overwhelmed with the amount of text on the screen.
Viewing Goals in the Calendar
Users can view their goals for different courses in either a daily view (with allotted time to study) or in a monthly view with color-coded circles to mark planned study days for different courses.
Q&A Popup
Learners can highlight text or video transcripts to ask questions. Peers can respond and can see previous questions that have been asked.
Goal Setting
Users are provided the opportunity to make a goal setting plan. They first set the date they would like to complete the course. They can then build a schedule for times and days they would like to study.
Final Interactions
Reflection
This was the first project that I was able to mentor younger group members and lead a project. I was able to develop my communication skills by being the primary point of contact with the Cisco researchers we were working with, and my collaboration skills by being a co-lead in this project.
Overall, I greatly enjoyed this project. I was able to see that I enjoy leadership and management, and that it's something I want to pursue in my future.
OUR CHALLENGE
Ideate on new features that specifically cater to the mobile learning experience
Cisco U is a personalized online learning platform intended to prepare people to have the knowledge they need to acquire new certifications
CLIENT
Cisco
YEAR
01/2023 - 05/2023
ROLE
Co-Lead
UX Researcher &
Designer