Language Learning App
Step 1
UNDERSTAND
Why?
Sure, there are plenty of language learning apps out there. However, with all these resources available at our fingertips, why do many polyglots and language learning hobbyists prefer not to use these apps?
Although many apps can provide helpful gamification and extrinsic rewards, whether or not they are able to progress to fluency is also largely reliant on intrinsic motivation.
Goals
1. Ignite curiosity in the learner
2. Connect the learner with cultural knowledge
3. Emulate the ideal learning environment: immersion
4. Teach grammar, but understand that it is not the most important
Competitors*
While all of these options offer quick, easy lessons, many of them struggle with user drop off.
*Ideally, Listen+Learn will be used alongside digital or traditional language learning methods.
Types of Learners (Users)
Based off of CEFR scale
LEVEL 1 - 2
Absolute beginner - Elementary
LEVEL 3-4 (Target)
Intermediate - Upper Intermediate
LEVEL 4+
Absolute beginner - Elementary
- Priority: Creating a habit
Intermediate - Upper Intermediate
- Priority: Interest and level based lessons/media.
- Priority: Ability to immerse from anywhere
User Persona (Level 3)
Hannah
21 year old student studying International Business and Marketing with a minor in Korean.
She would like to move to South Korea after finishing her MA to teach English or pursue a career in business. She would also like to learn Japanese in the future.
Language Studies
She has used language learning apps previously, but stopped after losing motivation over time.
To study Korean, she usually memorizes vocabulary, consumes Korean media, and talks to native speakers (usually through communication apps).
Step 2
EXPLORE
An app for language learners to stay motivated while consuming media that pertains to their language goals, interests, and fluency level.
With all the language learning apps on the market, this solution seeks to motivate the learner by exposing them to their target language's culture
Midfidelity Prototype (+Notes)
Added after user testing and more research
1. More lesson based
Having more guidance from the start will help the average user. Earlier prototypes put too much responsibility on the user.
Having more guidance from the start will help the average user. Earlier prototypes put too much responsibility on the user.
2. Goals and Achievements
Research and user testing shows value in setting short and long term goals.
Research and user testing shows value in setting short and long term goals.
3. Dialects
Can be helpful to know for most languages, but critical for languages like Arabic.
Can be helpful to know for most languages, but critical for languages like Arabic.
4. More social
Support and friendly competition can be a big source of motivation.
Support and friendly competition can be a big source of motivation.
Step 3
MATERIALIZE
Home
- Introduced recommended lessons specifically designed for beginner to intermediate learners
- Removed mini player to promote reading while listening
Discover + Lyrics
- Added stories option to provide more everyday vocabulary and phrases
- Forces immersion by providing target language definition first
Dictionary
- Added an “All “ tab to make it easier to review vocabulary
- Spaced repetition flashcard system for practicing vocabulary
Profile
- Posts creates a space to share achievements with friends
- Added streaks for extra accountability
Afterthoughts
With more time, I’d like to (re)visit a few more areas:
- Multilingual songs
- Non latin writing systems
- Formality levels
- Contextual differences between an everyday conversation and music, for example.