Learnguistix is an advanced language learning platform designed to make language acquisition engaging, effective, and culturally immersive. Emphasizing precise pronunciation, it includes specialized features to aid memorization and speaking skills. Additionally, the platform connects users with certified language tutors who provide feedback on speaking patterns. By making language learning accessible, culturally enriching, and interactive, Learnguistix serves as a valuable tool for users pursuing a comprehensive, dynamic approach to language mastery.
Problem:
While language learning through apps or traditional education can be somewhat effective, learners often lack consistent, meaningful practice opportunities to reinforce their skills. Many also struggle with pronunciation accuracy, as they lack tools to check or correct their speech. Additionally, existing language learning methods may not cater to diverse learning styles or support necessary memorization strategies, which further limits engagement and mastery.
Solutions:
The goal of this product is to create an engaging and effective learning experience that helps users learn and retain their chosen language in a meaningful way. The app accommodates various learning styles by incorporating memorization aids tailored to individual needs. From the beginning, users can view the phonetic spelling of words to make an initial connection, followed by visualizing pronunciation with sound waves to improve accuracy. As users progress, they can apply their skills through tailored lessons and practice with verified tutors in weekly sessions. This combination of visual aids, personalized learning, and tutor support helps users build their language skills with confidence and ease.
I conducted interviews with five stakeholders who use language learning apps to understand their preferences, behaviors, and desires for an improved experience. Using these insights, I generated potential feature ideas and organized them in a mind map. I then prioritized these features by evaluating them in a 2x2 prioritization matrix, ensuring each was supported by existing research for viability.
From the stakeholder interview findings, I created two personas, each accompanied by a storyboard, workflows, journey map and the information architecture of the product.
Learnguistix differentiates itself by emphasizing real-world conversational fluency and native speaker pronunciation, addressing this gap. Unlike Duolingo, which excels in gamification, Learnguistix will offer a deeper focus on pronunciation accuracy and contextual conversation, meeting an unmet market need.
I conducted usability testing with five target users, presenting them with low-fidelity prototypes via Zoom. During the session, users navigated the prototype while verbalizing their cognitive walkthrough. I asked a mix of behavioral, qualitative, quantitative, and generative questions to gather insights. Observing their actions and analyzing their responses, I identified key design opportunities and gaps in the business model. Based on these findings, I revised the payment structure to better incentivize continued user engagement and growth.
Overall, users enjoyed their experience and the proposed feature ideas, rating each feature with an average score of 4.24 out of 5. Many participants indicated that they would change little to none of the flows presented. Most stated that the app met their expectations for ease of use.
This product strategically encourages user engagement by offering an immersive learning experience, whether users choose the free or premium subscription model. As users see value in the features provided, they are more likely to transition to the paid model, seeking additional tools. This approach not only sustains user interest but also creates a seamless pathway for converting free users into paying customers, thus supporting revenue grow
Pronounce Pro provides users with visual guidance on shaping facial anatomy, including the positioning of teeth, tongue, and lips, to enhance pronunciation. By emphasizing physical articulation over written instructions, it supports accurate sound production and improves speaking proficiency.
SoundWave Sync enables users to refine pronunciation by comparing their vocal patterns to those of native speakers through visualized and overlaid sound waves. This feature highlights discrepancies in tone and pitch, providing actionable insights for precise language acquisition and improved pronunciation accuracy.
The Tutor Talk feature allows users to schedule sessions with certified Learnguistix tutors for personalized guidance in pronunciation improvement and language mastery. These sessions offer opportunities to interact with native speakers, enabling users to refine their linguistic skills while gaining insights into cultural nuances and regional variations.
*Additionally, proficient users may qualify as tutors by passing a language assessment, contributing to the platform while earning Journey Points by teaching their native or fluent language. This approach promotes both language learning and cultural exchange within the community.
Within the lessons, users who experience difficulties with pronunciation have the option to activate the Phonetic Spelling feature, which offers phonetic representations of words to aid in accurate pronunciation. Additionally, for users facing challenges with gendered pronouns, the app provides the Gendered Pronoun Flex, a color-coded mnemonic device designed to enhance retention.
*While these features support the learning process, they slightly reduce the number of Journey Points awarded per lesson. This adjustment encourages users to apply their knowledge independently, reinforcing their learning and fostering greater mastery of the language.
*I ensured that all color combinations, including text and graphics, complied with WCAG 2.1 standards.
Presentation deck available upon request.
