GlobalLingo Connect

A Language Learning app

Project Overview

To design a cutting-edge virtual language exchange platform that facilitates language learning and cultural exchange among users worldwide. The platform aims to empower individuals to enhance their language skills, connect with native speakers, and foster a global community of learners and professionals.

Role

UX Researcher
UX Designer
User Testing
Information Architect

Tools

Figma
Figjam
Google Suite

Team

I was the sole designer from initial concept to final high fidelity product.

Problem

Language learning is challenging due to limited personalized practice and native speaker access. Traditional apps often lack real-time interaction and cultural immersion, essential for mastering a language, and may fail to keep users motivated with engaging experiences.

Solution

GlobalLingo Connect solves these challenges by connecting users with native speakers and learners. It offers personalized matchmaking based on goals, interests, and styles. Users can schedule sessions, engage in conversations, and join interactive challenges. The dashboard tracks progress and achievements, fostering continuous improvement.

Impact

Transforms language learning into an engaging and social experience.
Facilitates real-time interaction and cultural exchange with native speakers.
Helps users gain practical language skills and deeper cultural understanding.
Fosters a more connected global community.

Project Objectives

Detailed Feature Descriptions

User Registration and Profile Creation:
• Simple onboarding, with social media login options.
• Input details on language proficiency, goals, and interests.

Language Matching Algorithm:
• Advanced algorithm considers proficiency, time zones, and hobbies.
• Swiping/matching mechanism for engagement.

Communication Features:
• User-friendly chat with voice and text options.
• Real-time translation for seamless language switching.

Personalized Learning Plans:
• Initial assessment for learning preferences and pace.
• AI-driven plans adapt based on user feedback and progress.

Progress Tracking:
• Visual reports and achievements to motivate.
• Analytics on improvement areas, learning time, and proficiency.

Community Building:
• Discussion forums for languages and interests.
• Group challenges and language events for interaction.

User Engagement:
• Push notifications for reminders and event participation.
• Gamification with badges, rewards, and leaderboards.

Security and Privacy:
• Granular control over privacy settings.
• Users choose who can view profiles and activities..

Competitive Analysis

I reviewed several language learning apps to identify strengths, weaknesses, and unique features. Comparing these with our project brief, I pinpointed market gaps our app could fill, guiding key feature implementation.

Who are we designing for?

I created user personas focusing on professionals, motivated individuals, students, and early career professionals to guide the app's design and meet their specific needs.

Wireframes

With the project objectives in mind, I created an initial rough draft of the product. This early visualization served as a foundational starting point, allowing me to refine and develop the design further.

Language matching algorithmAdvanced profile setupProgress tracking analytics

Informational Architecture

After sketching the key elements, I planned the design structure by developing an information architecture. This visualized user pathways and organized features, ensuring an intuitive and seamless user experience.

Sign up / Sign in

Find a learning partner

Schedule a learning lesson

View Achievements

Site Map

Usability Testing

I created a clickable prototype for user testing to gather valuable feedback on key app features. Tasks included:

Signing Up as a New User

Connecting with a Learning Partner

Scheduling a Learning Session

Viewing the User Achievement Dashboard

Visiting the Learning Community

Structuring the prototype around these tasks simulated real user interactions, gathered targeted feedback, and informed iterative design improvements.

Key Insights

All participants navigated the user journeys successfully. One user initially struggled with the secondary navigation but figured it out, noting common learning curves with new apps. I refined the final design to improve the secondary navigation. Additional feedback included:

"Very Straight forward!!"

"It was clear to swipe right when I went to look through learning partners."

"I liked the simple design and easy-to-see icons."

Design

Following positive initial testing feedback, I developed comprehensive UI patterns focused on approachability and friendliness, carefully considering color schemes, typography, iconography, and layout designs for an intuitive user experience.

Try it for yourself

Signing Up as a New User

Connect with a Learning Partner

Scheduling a Learning Session

Viewing the User Achievement Dashboard

Visiting the Learning Community

Clickable Prototype

Next Steps

1
Iterative Design Refinement: Continuously refine the app design based on user feedback and usability testing results to further enhance the user experience and address any identified pain points.
2
User Testing with High-Fidelity Prototype: Conduct user testing sessions using a high-fidelity prototype to gather more detailed feedback on specific design elements and interactions before final implementation.
3
Collaborative Stakeholder Review: Present the refined designs to stakeholders for collaborative review and feedback, ensuring alignment with project goals and objectives.
4
Usability Testing with Real Users: Conduct usability testing sessions with real users to validate the effectiveness of the refined designs in real-world scenarios and identify any remaining usability issues or areas for improvement

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on the design process, I faced challenges like limited capacity for large-scale usability tests due to resource constraints. This led me to explore alternative feedback methods. Observing user interactions with prototypes provided valuable insights, highlighting the importance of flexibility and user-centered design. The journey was enlightening and rewarding, underscoring the significance of adapting to user needs.

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