Major Project 1: Task 1 - Task 3
Proposal Development, Design Proposition, Concept Presentation ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ
Table of Contents
✿ Project Links
Project 1: Proposal Development
Project 2: Design Proposition
Project 3: Concept Presentation
✿ Feedback
Instructions
Find out other information about this module below
Module Information Booklet
Project Links
Tasks:
Task 1: Proposal Development - Slide Link HERE
Task 2: Design Proposition - Slide Link HERE
Task 3: Concept Presentation - Slide Link HERE
Click HERE to view the Task 1-3 process development of EduBuddy in FigJam Board.
Task 1: Proposal Development
Week 1
3 Topic Ideas
In this week, my group and I had a meeting online to discuss at least 3
topic ideas before our consultation during tutorial. To start off, we
referred a few senior blog links to get a glimpse / an idea on the
contents of Major Project.
3 Topic Ideas
Figure 2.1 Proposal Development (3 Topic Ideas)
Figure 2.2 Topic Ideas in MIRO
Introduction to the Chosen Topic
Supervisor: Mr. Razif
Group Members:
- Lim Yu Xuen 0359676 (Me)
- Yan Zhi Xuan 0369425
- Wang Zi Long 0361141
- Jin Rong 0361701
Final Project Title & Group Name
Figure 2.3 Final Topic Idea & Group Name
Figure 2.4 Introduction to Edubuddy, Problem Statement, Solutions, Aims,
Target Users, HMW Statement, Proposal Ideas and Business Model of EduBuddy (View in FigJam)
✿ Introduction:
EduBuddy is a study companion app
that aims to enhance the self-study experience for students by
helping them find compatible study partners. It combats common
issues like procrastination, isolation, and lack of structure by
offering features such as live virtual study rooms, AI tutoring,
progress tracking, and gamified incentives. The app aligns
with UN SDG 4 – Quality Education, and is targeted at high school and college students, online
learners, and exam-focused individuals.
✿ Problem Statement:
Many students find it hard to
stay motivated during self-study due to the lack of structure,
suitable study partners, or clear progress tracking. Distractions
like social media, lack of planning, and no accountability system
often lead to procrastination and poor academic outcomes.
✿ Solution:
EduBuddy solves these issues by
matching students with study partners based on learning style,
subject, and schedule. It offers virtual study spaces, AI-powered
tutors, progress tracking tools, and a reward system. Together,
these features aim to boost motivation, focus, and academic
performance.
✿ Aim & Objectives:
The main aim is to improve
self-study outcomes through collaboration and motivation. Objectives
include: Connecting students with compatible partners, Enhancing
collaborative learning and accountability, Improving study
productivity through virtual tools and shared sessions
✿ Target Users:
Primary users are high school and college
students. Secondary users include online learners, self-paced
students, and exam prep groups (e.g., SPM, IGCSE, SAT).
✿ How Might We (HMW) Statement:
“How might we help
students find the right study partner to improve learning outcomes
and motivation?”
✿ Proposal Ideas (Features):
- Smart Matching System: Pairs users based on subject, goals, and availability
- Live Study Rooms: With timers, chat, and whiteboard features
- AI Subject Tutor: Instant help through quizzes and explanations
- Study Reminders & Trackers: Daily check-ins and goal tracking
- Gamified Rewards: Points, challenges, leaderboards
- Special Add-ons: AR Study Partner and Avatar Customization for more engaging solo study experiences
✿ Business Model Summary:
- Key Partners: Educational institutions, online learning platforms, EdTech APIs, and tutors
- Key Activities: Study partner matching, virtual study rooms, community engagement, gamification, and content creation
- Resources Needed: App development team, cloud infrastructure, AI/ML specialists, educational content creators
- Value Proposition: Personalized study partner matches, interactive learning, and AI-powered support to keep users motivated and connected
- Customer Relationships: Rewards system, ratings, support channels
- Channels: Mobile app (iOS & Android), social media, and educational partners
- Customer Segments: Students (primary), online learners, exam-prep users
- Cost Structure: App development, cloud services, AI tools, marketing, customer support
-
Revenue Streams: Freemium model with optional subscription, Ads and sponsored
content, In-app purchases (e.g., avatar upgrades), Institutional
partnerships, Premium tutoring/content sales
Proposal Development Plan
W1:
- Finalizing our title, Edubuddy
- Setting goals
- Target Users
- Timeline
- HMW Questions
W2:
- Interview 3 Students
- Organise results using empathy maps and affinity diagrams
W3:
- Submitted proposal
- Created user personas and user journey maps
W4:
- Brainstorm solutions
- Sketches for UI
- User Flows
W5:
- Low-fidelity wireframes
- Usability testing
W6:
- Polish our designs
- Preparing for final presentation
W7:
- Final presentation
- Submitted e-portfolio
- Documented in final prototype
Figure 2.5 Proposal Development Plans
EduBuddy VS Competitors (MoocLab, Gather, YPT, TiriMiri)
Unique Strengths of EduBuddy:
- AI Matching: Personalized buddy matching based on study styles & goals.
- Gamification: Badges, streaks, avatars, leaderboards.
- Accountability: Check-ins, reminders, progress tracking.
- Community: Structured sessions, discussions, and collaboration.
- Social Features: Chat, boards, study challenges.
- AI Personalization: Virtual study assistant and adaptive plans.
- MoocLab: Great community but outdated and lacks automation.
- Gather: Fun space but not tailored for studying or matching.
- YPT: Good for solo motivation, but no buddy system or community.
- TiriMiri: Has live webcam rooms, but no AI or gamification.
Figure 2.6 Competitors Analysis
Week 2
Data Collection Methodology
A. Quantitative Method:
- Online Survey Tool: Google Forms and distribute via WhatsApp.
- Respondents: 12
- Goal: Understand study habits, app interest, challenges, and pricing.
- Sections: User background & study routine, Experience with study buddies, Study tool preferences, Motivation & engagement, Feedback on EduBuddy
B. Qualitative Method:
- Tools: Google Docs and meeting with interviewees. (I interviewed 3 people; each member needs to interview 3 people)
- Respondents: 12
- Goal: Explore user needs, preferences, and expectations for EduBuddy.
- Sections: Study behaviour, Study buddy experiences, Digital tools, Motivation, Concept feedback
Figure 2.7 Data Collection Methodology
Figure 2.8 My Interviewees
Survey & Interview Questionnaire
Figure 2.9 Questionnaire
12 Interview Responses
Figure 2.10 Interview Responses
Figure 2.11 Collected Data/ Responses & Analysis
Figure 2.12 User Research - Survey and Interview Analysis of EduBuddy
Week 3
Affinity Diagram & User Pattern Table
A. Quantitative Method:
- Conducted 12 Interviews with students from different background, including Interior Architecture, Media, Business, Fashion, and Computer Science.
- We compared and analysed the information of all users to identify the common user groups.
- From our findings, we identified 4 main user patterns:
-
The Independent Learner (Solo Studier):
Prefers studying alone using digital tools like Notion & Pomodoro timers, but struggles with procrastination and distractions. Example: Wan Qi, Yuta, Elly, Adrian. -
The Collaborative / Social Learner:
Thrives in group discussions but faces scheduling conflicts and unequal workload. Example: Kelvin, Keqi, Zheng Yi. -
The Hybrid Learner:
Prefers one-on-one study partners with structured sessions but struggles to find reliable partners. Example: Lee Yee, Hanchen, Yi Chen. -
The Motivation-Driver Learner:
Needs AI-powered tutors, gamification, and structured goals to stay engaged. Example: Xi, Jia Xuen.
Figure 2.13 Interview - Affinity Diagram and User Pattern Table
Figjam Board of EduBuddy
Click HERE to view the Task 1-3 Process Development of EduBuddy in
FigJam Board.
Figure 2.14 FigJam Board of EduBuddy
Task 1: Proposal Development Presentation Slide
Figure 2.15 Task 1: Proposal Development (EduBuddy) by
The Study League
Task 2: Design Proposition
Week 4
Target Users
Through our affinity diagram, we narrowed down 3 group-based user groups
that align with EduBuddy's target users:
- Kelvin (Collaborative Learner) - Needs interactive group-based study methods
- Lee Yee (Hybrid Learner) - Prefers structured one-on-one study partnerships
- Jia Xuen (Motivation-Driven Learner) - Engage best with gamification & AI-driven features
Figure 3.1 Key Insights
User Persona
We developed 3 user personas that we have selected from above
Figure 3.2 User Personas
User Persona 1: Kelvin (The Social Learner)
- Age: 24 | Location: Puchong | Occupation: Architecture Graduate
- Prefers: Group study, discussions, in-person or structured virtual sessions
- Needs: Group coordination tool
- Pain Point: Uncooperative group members
- Quote: "I prefer studying in a group... but it slows us down when others don’t contribute."
User Persona 2: Lee Yee (The Hybrid Learner)
- Age: 21 | Location: Subang Jaya | Occupation: Interior Architecture Student
- Prefers: One-on-one structured study with digital tools
- Needs: Smart matching based on goals/schedules
- Pain Point: Unreliable or disorganized partners
- Quote: "A smart matching system would make things much easier."
User Persona 3: Jia Xuen (The Motivation-Driven
Learner)
- Age: 18 | Location: Bukit Jalil | Occupation: Recent High School Grad
- Prefers: Fun, reward-based learning with gamification
- Needs: Progress tracking, badges, AI reminders
- Pain Point: Procrastination, lack of discipline
- Quote: "Earning points pushes me to study instead of just reminding me."
User Journey Maps
Our Initial user journey map represents how students discover,
onboard, and interact with EduBuddy.
Figure 3.3 Initial User Journey Map
✿
Before using Edubuddy: Users struggle with low motivation, distractions, and unreliable study partners.
✿ During their first experience: They get matched with a compatible study buddy, explore virtual study rooms, and use AI-powered guidance.
✿ Long-term engagement: Users build study habits, maintain streaks with gamification rewards, and track their progress.
Figure 3.4 3 User Journey Maps
User Journey Map 1: Kelvin (Group-based Learner)
- Needs: Collaborative features, structured group tools
- Pains: Scheduling issues, inactive members
- Mood: Starts excited → gets slightly overwhelmed → ends satisfied
- Solutions: Assign group roles, focus mode, participation tracking
User Journey Map 2: Lee Yee (One-on-One Learner)
- Needs: Reliable partner, clear matching system, session planner
- Pains: Unreliable buddies, unclear progress
- Mood: Excited → cautious → anxious → ends accomplished
- Solutions: Preview matches, checklist tools, session rewards
User Journey Map 3: Jia Xuen (Gamified Learner)
- Needs: Motivation via games, rewards, AI tutor
- Pains: Procrastination, boredom, low retention
- Mood: Optimistic → slightly overwhelmed → ends happy
- Solutions: Interactive gamification, daily streaks, surprise challenges
Monetization of EduBuddy
How does the app earn?
Figure 3.5 Monetization of Edubuddy
Figjam Board of EduBuddy
Click HERE to view the Task 1-3 Process Development of
EduBuddy in FigJam Board.
Figure 3.6 FigJam Board of EduBuddy
Task 2: Design Proposition Presentation Slide
Figure 3.7 Task 2: Design Proposition (EduBuddy) by The
Study League
Task 3: Concept Presentation
Week 5
Brainstorming Ideations
The UI/UX design process began with brainstorming ideas, gathering visual
inspiration, and identifying user needs. The team used methods like mind
mapping, Crazy 8s sketching, and affinity diagrams to generate and refine
concepts. Design inspiration was collected through mood boards from
Pinterest, Behance, and app analysis to identify trends and gaps.
Next, content structure was organized using card sorting techniques, followed by defining clear user flows with personas and flowcharts. Visual consistency was ensured by selecting a suitable color palette, typography, and UI components. Finally, low-fidelity wireframes were sketched and developed using tools like Procreate and Figma to test layout and functionality without focusing on fine details.
Figure 4.1 Brainstorming Ideations
Design Inspirations
Case Study #1 — Duolingo App
Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that uses gamification to
drive engagement. It stands out with features like streaks,
leaderboards, XP tracking, and rewards to maintain user motivation.
Its success lies in quick onboarding, clear progress tracking, and
social elements that encourage friendly competition. These strategies
help boost learning consistency and can be applied to other
educational apps to improve user retention.
Study Bunny combines productivity with a cute, interactive pet. Users
earn coins by studying and spend them on in-app rewards for their bunny.
The app includes timers, study stats, to-do lists, and flashcards. While
it’s engaging, the UI has usability issues like cramped icons and unclear
features. Still, it offers a fun experience that supports focus and
tracking, making it ideal for users needing motivation through rewards and
visuals.
Week 6
Information Architecture Map (Card Sorting Method)
UXTweak Card Sorting User Research
Click
HERE
to participate the card sorting exercise.
EduBuddy’s card sorting research involved 8 participants
categorizing 20 feature cards into 6 logical groups: Social
Learning, Study Tools, Gamification, AI Learning, Alerts, and
Account Management. The results showed strong alignment in how users
grouped features, confirming that the structure supports intuitive
navigation. However, some features like Goal Setting and UI
Customization were sorted inconsistently, highlighting the need for
better clarity and organization. Overall, the findings validate the
app’s structure and offer clear insights to refine labels,
reorganize scattered elements, and improve user experience.
Using the card sorting method, features were grouped into six categories: Social Learning, Productivity Tools, Gamified Learning, AI Personalization, Notifications, and Account Management. Each category includes tools like discussion forums, Pomodoro timers, leaderboards, avatar customization, and alerts.
The information architecture map shows how EduBuddy’s content is structured for smooth navigation. The home page centers on social learning, branching into productivity tools, gamification, AI features, alerts, and user settings—ensuring all key functions are logically organized.
EduBuddy’s MVP focuses on three core features: smart study partner matching, AI-powered tutoring, and study scheduling with reminders. Matching helps users find compatible partners to boost collaboration. The AI tutor supports self-study without needing a real tutor, while schedules and reminders keep students organized and consistent.
Figure 4.4 Information Architecture Map (Card
Sorting Method) & 3 MVP Features of EduBuddy
User Flow Chart of EduBuddy
Click
HERE
to view the User Flow Chart
Figure 4.5 User Flow Chart of EduBuddy
Mood Board Design Guidelines
- Grid System: The layout uses a mobile-friendly grid based on the iPhone 15 Pro Max frame, with a 2-column auto layout for consistency and responsiveness in UI design.
- Color Scheme: The palette includes 7 brand colors (blues and purples) and 6 secondary colors (neutrals and pastels) to create a calming and youthful aesthetic.
- Typography: The app uses the Poppins typeface in various weights and sizes (5px–30px). It offers clean readability and a modern, friendly look suitable for digital interfaces.
- Iconography: Icons are monochromatic and rounded for a soft, approachable feel. Sizes range from 15×15 to 24×24 px, using dark gray as the default color.
- Logo: The logo features a smiling globe above an open book, representing global learning, connection, and motivation. Sparkles add a sense of achievement and fun.
Our color scheme blends soft purples and deep blues, creating a balance between focus and creativity, while bright blues add a sense of energy. it reflects a calm, and student-friendly aesthetic
The typography is popping which is modern and readable, here’s the UI components as design elements and there is our initial idea of our brand icon.
Figure 4.6 Mood Board Design Guidelines
Figure 4.7 UI Kit of EduBuddy in Figma
Week 7
Individual Work
EduBuddy Wireframes (Lo-Fi Prototypes)
Link
HERE
to view on Figma.
As part of the UI/UX process, we were required to
design our own set of lo-fi wireframes based on
user needs key app features. My wireframes include
core pages such as the Home, Study (Pomodoro
Timer), Game, Avatar, and Settings screens.
I wanted each screen to be minimalistic but meets
the user needs (align with user persona and journey
maps) with simple layout structure, intuitive
navigation, and consistent icon placement to enhance
usability.
Figure 4.8 Individual Lo-Fi Wireframes
Our prototype consists of five main sections: Home Page, Study Page, Game Page, My Avatar Page, and Settings Page.
Our app can be downloaded from the App Store, from then users are welcomed to EduBuddy with our landing pages which shows our logo, and a short carousel introducing the main features of our app. Users are then required to fill in their information and preferences to create a user profile before starting their study journey with EduBuddy.
Starting with the Home Page, users will first see their ongoing chats, from here users may also find new study buddies by clicking the button below, which leads them to the next page where there are recent contacts, as well as a search bar for AI-Driven Matching. This is our main feature of EduBuddy, where users can find study buddies based on their preferences, such as language, subjects, study style and so on. Before joining a group, they can browse the personalised recommendations, and preview ongoing discussions to decide if it’s the right fit.
Figure 4.11 Home Page
After the user decides to join the group chats, it will direct them to the discussion page to start chatting with the group members. In the virtual study room, there are collaborative tools like white boards, where users can share links, attach documents, share screen, turn on or off the mic, and even choose background music and screenshot the screen for future reference. At the end of the study session, the AI generator will summarise the study session
which includes time, conclusion of discussions, upcoming to-dos and so on.
Figure 4.12 Group Chat, White Board Pages
In the second page which is the Study Page, users can start timers. For instance, pomodoro, countdowns, break time. Meanwhile, the third, which is the Game Page, introduces a gamified approach to studying. Users can start challenges that make learning more engaging and interactive.
Figure 4.13 Study & Game Pages
Next, we have the My Avatar Page, where users can customize their avatars and explore the store for upgrades. This personalization adds a fun and rewarding element to the platform. Lastly, the Settings Page allows users to manage their profiles, update personal information, and adjust privacy settings to enhance their experience.
Figure 4.14 Avatar
& Settings Pages
Our Lo-Fi Prototype lays the foundation for EduBuddy’s user-friendly
interface, focusing on engagement, collaboration, and customization.
These wireframes help us visualize the app’s functionality before
moving into high-fidelity designs.
Figjam Board of EduBuddy
Click HERE to view the Task 1-3 Process Development of EduBuddy in FigJam
Board.
Figure 4.15 FigJam Board of EduBuddy
Task 3: Concept Presentation Slide
Figure 4.16 Task 3: Concept Presentation (EduBuddy) by The
Study League
Feedback
Figure 5.1 Weekly Online Consultations with Mr. Razif
Week 1
- Have special features of our app (Why is it better than existing apps)
- Do Business Model Canvas to generate ideas
- Have reason why we want to do a topic (What is the issue, What is the problem we want to solve?)
Week 2
- AR Mode, Chat Mode, Video Call Mode, AI Bot
- Create own avatars to spawn them next to you
- Start on google form Interview, can have LIVE Interview too
- Include demographics and age (persona)
Week 3
- Make sure google form questions are all required
- Closed ended questions are more recommended
- No need record LIVE interviews
- Have to analyse key insights
- Improve arrangement of slides from why, how, aim, app introduction, timeline etc.
- Features / Content slide can include catchphrase
- While presenting, run through all the questions quickly and just go straight into key insights
- What is the current studying phases of people studying, pinpoint the issues and expand from there to solve those issues
- Based on assumptions, or some sort of current happening, derive a new proposed journey map
- User pattern means characteristics of users, find common and similar patterns
Week 4
- Continue on developing user insights and data from user interview
- Develop user personas and user journey map
- Double confirm the amount of personas with Ms Wong
Week 5
- Can prepare wireframe ideas
- Start on card sorting, user flow, architecture map, and find visual references
- Develop individual moodboards and lofi wireframes or sketches
Week 6
- Approved arrangement of slides and content
-
Can have own wireframes and include in slides for presentation
Week 7
-
Pomodoro timer can be bigger in wireframe design
-
Include individual work for sketches and wireframe for submission
- Cart Sorting/ Architecture Map just have one enough (the ones in our presentation slides looks the same)
Reflections
Working on EduBuddy was an amazing experience for me. I am glad my groupmates all decided to go for a topic where all of us can relate to, which is studying. As a student myself, I know how hard it is to persevere and stay motivated throughout our study sessions. I can see myself having the need to reach out for this app whenever I have to lock in. This project really touches a part of my heart as it heals my inner child needs. If only this app was released when I had to study for my big exams like PT3 and SPM. I think it would be very helpful on a daily.
Throughout the 7 weeks of completing this project, I learnt different people have different study methods. Besides that, it was nice to get an insight into different age groups and generations of students and their everyday lifestyles. I realised that many people wanted to connect with others who share similar goals or even similar personalities as that helps people focus and get stuff done the best. After reading through all the google form responses, many people are facing lack of motivation when it comes to studying. I can totally relate to it as I do procrastinate or get easily distracted too. These insights helped shaped the direction of my app, StudyBuddy. With these comments, my groupmates and I were able to plan an app that would meet every student's needs.
From this project, I get to improve my skills in researching, making slides in canva, doing lo-fi prototypes on figma, and stick to a timeline plan throughout completing the project. EduBuddy really helped me learnt alot, not just about people, but being able to upskill my abilities with designing too.