Introduction
Google Edu is an independent capstone project where I led the entire design process—from initial concept to final high-fidelity prototype. Designed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, it explores how augmented reality (AR) can improve remote learning by making it more engaging, interactive, and socially connected.
3 months | Oct 2020 - Dec 2020
As the sole Product Designer, I was responsible for every stage— initial concept, strategy, user research, interaction design, design system, prototyping, and promotion video. The project was later showcased at the Capstone Exhibition in collaboration with Smilegate.
Capstone Design Project
Solo UX Case Study from Initial Concept to Design Execution
Design overview
A playful AR Zone where students use customizable emojis to express emotions and reactions—encouraging social connection and reducing the feeling of isolation in remote learning.
AR Emoji Customization and Virtual Classroom
Design overview
An interactive platform where students access announcements, submit assignments, participate in peer reviews, and engage in discussions, all within a cohesive virtual environment.
Design overview
A dynamic schedule that guides students to their classes in real-time, featuring zoomable views for personalized navigation and time-based prompts for seamless transitions.
Design overview
Integrated live-streaming capabilities with AR avatar support, enabling students to join small group discussions while maintaining privacy and reducing on-camera anxiety.
Design Question
Initial thoughts & Background 💭
In 2020, the pandemic reshaped education, pushing students and teachers into remote learning overnight. While many tools tried to fill the gap, I questioned whether they truly supported a fully remote experience. Using Google Classroom at the time, I saw an opportunity to reimagine it—redesigning the app with its existing design system to better support students learning entirely online.
Research
Over 30% of the survey participants reported struggling with social interaction in online classes. All interviewees shared feelings of disconnection and the need for more organic social engagement.
Due to communication barriers, students find it hard to engage in class. Half of the survey respondents said their participation has decreased since the pandemic, with all interviewees admitting to more passive involvement.
All three interview participants noted difficulties staying productive and managing time in online learning. They mentioned having lower productivity compared to in-person classes, citing a lack of time pressure as a major factor.
Ideation
Students feel disconnected from their peers and teachers.
Many students struggle to actively engage in classes.
Students find it difficult to stay focused and manage class time effectively in the remote environment.
Ideation
The solution should be fun and engaging to help students feel more connected and comfortable in remote learning.
The solution should promote active participation and collaboration among students.
The solution should be easy to use, enabling all students to navigate and engage with their classes effectively.
IDeation
After defining the design goals and principles, I explored several ideas for Google Edu’s new feature. Below are the three final concepts, each accompanied by mid-fidelity prototypes. Swipe through the screens to see how each idea evolved.
IDEA 1
To create an engaging and interactive learning environment, I designed AR avatars that allow students to engage with classmates while addressing privacy concerns. Students can personalize their own AR avatars and interact in an immersive, fun classroom space.
IDEA 2
I wanted to recreate the in-person classroom experience for remote students. My solution was a customizable, immersive classroom that lets students actively participate in class activities, making the virtual space feel more interactive and connected.
IDEA 3
To improve remote learning accessibility, I developed an interactive timetable that helps students track class times and get reminders, ensuring they’re always prepared and on time for their sessions.
design development
I referenced Google Material’s Baseline Design Kit to guide the visual direction of the rebranded app. I identified key components, studied Material’s layout and hierarchy principles, and then created custom UI elements inspired by the system—balancing consistency with the app’s unique needs.
Project wrap-up
Applying design principles throughout the process makes the work more purposeful, repeatable, and organized. Research methods used early on also serve as valuable references for future decisions and comparisons.
Innovative interactions can be exciting, but they often introduce a learning curve. Blending creative ideas with familiar patterns helps users adjust smoothly while still experiencing something new.
Starting prototyping and testing early in the process helps uncover issues and gather user feedback sooner. This speeds up iteration and leads to more effective, user-centered solutions.
In this project, I adapted and extended an existing design system to ensure consistency and alignment. Understanding and applying a shared design language is key when collaborating within a larger design team and communicating across stakeholders.
