Study Smarter, Not Harder
ExamMap is an application that uses AI to generate a personalized study plan based on the class, the university/school, and the best study methods, scientifically proven to increase productivity and time-management.
USER PROBLEM
When preparing for exams and learning/memorizing material, students struggle with time-management and productivity.
Students often don’t know the best way to prioritize their time and the best methods to maximize productivity.
CHALLENGE
Design an application that helps students learn and memorize while effectively manage their time.
TIMELINE
COMPETITOR ANALYSIS
USER INTERVIEWS
User Interview Questions
Tetrisly offers a solution that directly addresses these pain points, empowering design teams to build, manage, and maintain design systems more effectively.
Question: How do you study to feel most confident before an exam?
Answer: I do practice problems until I feel confident.
Question: Suppose you have an exam tomorrow and you haven't started preparing, how would you go about studying for it?
Answer: I don't have time to do review notes, I use old homework problems and do more practice problems on Chegg to study.
Question: How often do you use Chegg, Course Hero, and Quizlet? Do you find them useful?
Answer: I use all of them often. Quizlet is great. I like the pre-existing flashcard decks, I don't like to make flashcards on my own. I use Chegg and Course Hero for practice problems.
Question: Have you ever researched study methods before? If so, which ones? Have you implemented them before?
No I haven't. I would use them, I just don't know about them.
INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
LOW FIDEL PROTOTYPE
TYPE + COLOR
Defining and Utilizing a Design System
Adding color was by far the hardest challenge of this project. The first task was to choose a color scheme. Putting my cognitive science skills to productive use, I did some research on color psychology.
Why is color psychology important?
In a study conducted to find out what the role of color is in marketing, it was discovered that 90% of impulsive decisions are subjected to the mental effects of color only. (https://www.colorpsychology.org/the-effects-of-color-on-the-moods-of-college-students/)
While red is often associated with notions of intimidation, excitement, or electrifying sensations, college students typically don't greet the sight of red ink all over their test papers with optimism. Previous research has yielded inconclusive findings regarding the impact of the color red.
To address this question, a study conducted six trials involving 71 college students in the United States. Each student was assigned a member number, which was either colored red, green, or black, just before taking a 5-minute exam. Surprisingly, students who were assigned the red number before the exam performed more than 20% worse compared to those given the green or black numbers.
On the other hand, serene colors like blue and green are believed to enhance focus, promote broad thinking, and facilitate productive discussions. For instance, Buscemi's research has indicated that colors such as blues, greens, and muted brown tones are optimal choices for individuals, both adults, and children, who have ADD and ADHD.
Ultimately, the decision was to use a mix of greens and blues to create the application. In addition, I wanted to incorporate some contrast colors so I choose oranges and muted reds.
ITERATIONS WITH COLOR
FINAL PRODUCT
Generating a Study Plan
Input your information about your university, class, textbook, class materials such as worksheets and labs, and previous exams to generate a plan based on your learning needs.
Gamification
Gamify the learning process by incorporating elements like quizzes, challenges, and rewards to make studying more engaging and enjoyable.
Flashcards, Card Matching, & Crosswords
Active Recall: This process of retrieving information from your memory strengthens the neural pathways associated with that information.
Spacing and Repetition: Reviewing the same information multiple times over spaced intervals reinforces your memory. This technique is known as spaced repetition and is highly effective for long-term retention.
Visualization: Visual imagery can aid memory as our brains tend to remember images more easily than text alone.
Feedback: Both flashcards and card matching games provide immediate feedback.
Engagement: Active participation in the learning process can stimulate your brain and increase motivation.
Profile and Menu
I decided against creating a bottom navigation bar because I think removing it entirely provides a seamless experience which is more engaging for the user.
Accountability
Confidence Tracking: Implement a feature that allows students to track their confidence levels over time. This can be done through self-assessments or periodic quizzes to gauge their understanding of the material.
Reminder System: While many students prefer using physical planners, you can offer an optional digital reminder system that syncs with their calendar apps. Allow users to choose their preferred method of receiving reminders, whether it's through notifications, emails, or SMS.
Progress Tracking: Create a progress tracking system within the app. Visualize progress through charts or graphs, showing areas where the student has improved and where they may need more practice. Make it easy for students to see how much they've covered and how well they are doing.
