l'acquis app (Dictionary & trainings)
l'acquis app (Dictionary & trainings)
Industry: EdTech, Language Learning
Timeline: March 2024 - May 2024
Based on previously conducted UX research and the insights gathered during the design of our core functionalities, we identified a need to better cater to intermediate and advanced French learners. Initially, the app aimed to serve a broad audience, but our research highlighted the unique needs and higher expectations of more advanced users. Consequently, we decided to focus our efforts on this specific group, extending the app's functionality to better meet their learning goals. This case study covers the development of a comprehensive dictionary and vocabulary training features designed to support and enhance the learning experience for intermediate and advanced users.
The objective of this project was to design a comprehensive dictionary and vocabulary training interactive exercises for a French learning app, specifically targeting intermediate and advanced learners.
As Product designer, my primary responsibility was to create screen designs and user flows for a comprehensive dictionary and vocabulary training interactive exercises. These designs were based on previously conducted UX research and insights gained during the design of the app's core functionalities. My tasks included ideation, creating mockups and prototypes, validating them through usability testing, iterating based on feedback, and delivering the final designs to the development team.
Discovery
Our primary source of insights came from the comprehensive UX research we conducted before. In addition I analyzed the solutions provided by the competitors to get some insights.
Ideation
We brainstormed with key stakeholders to generate ideas for a comprehensive dictionary and vocabulary training exercises. Using UX research insights, we identified features that would learners, focusing on robust vocabulary tools.
Design
I developed detailed user flows for intuitive interactions and created high-fidelity mockups, emphasizing user-friendly interfaces, clear navigation, and engaging elements.
Testing
Conducted usability tests with 15 respondents using remote tests, A/B tests, and observations. This feedback helped us identify flaws and refine our designs.
Reiteration
Based on testing feedback, we iterated on the designs to address issues and enhance the user experience. We refined user flows, adjusted visual elements, and improved functionalities.
Delivery
I prepared detailed specifications and collaborated with developers to ensure accurate implementation.
During the ideation phase, we conducted brainstorming sessions and workshops with key stakeholders to generate ideas for the comprehensive dictionary and vocabulary training exercises. Leveraging our UX research insights, we identified features that would provide significant value to intermediate and advanced learners. We aimed to stand out by offering an extensive dictionary that included not only multiple translations and audio pronunciations but also definitions in French, synonyms, example sentences, and full verb conjugations. Additionally, we decided on specific vocabulary exercises to include: Flashcards for easy wordlist training, Word-Translation, and Translation-Word exercises where users choose the correct translation from four options.
In the design phase, I developed detailed user flows to ensure that each interaction within the app was intuitive and seamless. I then created high-fidelity mockups for the comprehensive dictionary and vocabulary training exercises. Designing the dictionary was particularly challenging due to the amount of information provided. The designs emphasized user-friendly interfaces, clear navigation, and engaging interactive elements to enhance the learning experience. Specific features designed included Flashcards, Word-Translation, and Translation-Word exercises. These prototypes were crafted to immerse users and make vocabulary learning both effective and enjoyable.
The onboarding process consists of four screens that highlight the key features of the app. Users are introduced to the app's functionalities, such as personalized learning paths, interactive exercises, and progress tracking. There is also an option to skip the onboarding for users who prefer to dive straight into the app.
The Log in and Sign up process supports seamless registration through Apple ID, Google ID, or by creating an account with an email. This provides users with flexible options to easily access the app, ensuring a smooth and quick start to their learning journey.
Users have access to pre-made word lists organized by different themes and language levels. They can also create their own lists by selecting words from a comprehensive database and adding photos to personalize their lists. Within both the list sections and individual lists, users can swipe to add words to other lists, remove words, or edit the lists. This swipe-to-action feature makes managing vocabulary intuitive and efficient.
7 Prototypes
15 Respondents
To validate our designs, I prepared about 7 prototypes and conducted several rounds of usability testing with 15 intermediate and advanced French learners. We utilized various methods, including remote usability tests, A/B tests, and observations, to gather comprehensive feedback. Through these sessions, we observed how users interacted with the dictionary and vocabulary training features, identified pain points, and collected suggestions for improvement. This feedback was crucial in refining our designs.
Based on the insights gathered from usability testing, we iterated on the designs to address any issues and enhance the user experience. This involved refining user flows, adjusting visual elements, and improving the functionality of the dictionary and vocabulary training exercises. We tested the revised designs with users again to ensure that the changes effectively resolved identified issues and met user expectations.
To improve navigation, we made the tabs bigger to simplify switching between them and added a swipe option for even easier access.
Before:
The tabs were smaller and harder to navigate, making it difficult for users to switch between different sections of the dictionary.
Change:
Enlarged the tabs and introduced a swipe option for easier navigation.
Benefit:
These changes simplified navigation and made it more intuitive, enhancing the overall user experience.
For synonyms, we added a direct button to allow users to add synonyms to their wordlist with one click.
Before:
Adding synonyms to wordlists required multiple steps, which was time-consuming and less efficient.
Change:
Introduced a direct button for adding synonyms to wordlists in one click.
Benefit:
This change streamlined the process of managing wordlists, making it quicker and easier for users to enhance their vocabulary.
We changed the size of buttons to make them more visually appealing and to focus attention on these key elements during the interactive exercise.
Before:
The buttons were smaller and less noticeable, which made it harder for users to engage with the Flashcards effectively.
Change:
Increased the size of the buttons to make them more prominent.
Benefit:
This adjustment improved the visual appeal and usability, making it easier for users to interact with the Flashcards and enhancing their learning experience.
During usability tests, we discovered that some users wanted to see a summary after completing vocabulary or conjugation trainings. Based on this feedback, we redesigned the summary screen across all training exercises.
Before:
Users did not receive a detailed summary of their training session, which limited their ability to review and assess their performance.
Change:
The redesigned summary screen now provides a list of the words with translations that were trained during the interactive exercise. Additionally, we included an indicator that shows how well each word is memorized, with progress displayed in six stages.
Benefit:
This new summary screen enhances user feedback, allowing learners to track their progress more effectively and identify areas that need further practice, thereby improving the overall learning experience.
After finalizing the designs, I prepared detailed design specifications and documentation for the development team. This included annotated wireframes, interaction guidelines, and visual assets. I collaborated closely with developers to ensure that the implementation of the designs was accurate and maintained the intended user experience.
Design Creation and Delivery:
I created comprehensive designs for the app, focusing on the dictionary and vocabulary training features. After multiple iterations and refinements based on usability testing feedback, I delivered the final designs to the development team. This ensured that the designs were well-aligned with user needs and ready for implementation.
Improved User-Friendliness:
The design changes significantly enhanced the app's user-friendliness. By increasing button sizes in the FlashCards feature and making the dictionary tabs more accessible, users found it easier to interact with the app's functionalities. These changes made the app more intuitive and enjoyable to use.
Enhanced Navigation:
Enlarging tabs and adding a swipe option in the dictionary streamlined navigation, allowing users to switch between sections effortlessly. This improvement, informed by usability testing, reduced the time to action and made it simpler for users to find and use the app’s features effectively.
Effective Team Collaboration:
Throughout the design process, I collaborated closely with the team to find the best possible solutions, taking into account our limited time and budget constraints. This teamwork ensured that the final product was not only high-quality but also feasible within our project parameters. By working together, we successfully balanced innovation with practicality.