A mobile learning experience designed to make empathy easier to understand, explore, and apply through short, interactive lessons.
Information about empathy and its practical application can be difficult to find in one accessible resource.
Create an engaging resource that teaches foundational empathy concepts through practical, real-world applications.
I researched how users felt about learning interpersonal skills through a digital product, how they might interact with it, and where an app could offer unique value.
Feedback helped identify the right depth of content: just enough to introduce new concepts without overwhelming users. I also accounted for my own bias toward psychology by deliberately seeking varied perspectives.
A demographically diverse group with varied knowledge of empathy and different contexts for applying it.
Surveys, interviews, and observational studies. Secondary research revealed few comparable products, suggesting an opportunity in the market.
Asking for information before allowing access forces users to invest before understanding value.
Users expect an app to offer a richer experience than a basic internet search.
Psychological education often stops short of showing how concepts apply to everyday life.
“As a loving grandmother, I wish I knew the right thing to say so that I don’t annoy my daughter-in-law and we can all spend more happy times together.”
“As a devoted husband, I want to be better at talking to and comforting my wife so that our marriage continues to thrive.”
Ideation
Potential improvements were explored through Rapid Drawing and with brainstorming exercises including “How Might We?”
The lo-fi prototype was tested remotely in an unmoderated study. Five participants completed four tasks and rated their overall experience.
KPIs Measured:
• nav use
• conversion
• drop-off
• time on task
• SUS
Answering these questions helped me to forge a clearer path forward with my design.
• Some users could not find the email signup.
• Two different Examples headings caused confusion.
• Too many dots and swipes complicated navigation.
Three competing layout styles were simplified after testing revealed confusion.
The signup link was moved to the top navigation after most users struggled to find it.
Luminance ratios verified compliant to WCAG level AA requirements.
H1–H6 structure supports navigation and communicates information hierarchy.
Users can access specific topics directly or follow a sequential journey.
A more robust version might include interactive games and activities for individuals or groups.
Expanded image testing could reveal more about what resonates most with users.
Provide an arena for users to share their experiences and knowledge with a like-minded community.
