Comp Sci Mobile App for K12
End to end design of a introductory computer science lesson app including interactive activities.
Education Technology
Mastery Coding
Shipped 2023
Overview
A mobile-first learning app introducing core computer science concepts through short, interactive lessons.
Computer science education at the middle school level faces a critical tension: concepts must be rigorous enough to build genuine understanding, yet accessible enough for learners with zero programming experience.
My Role
I designed the app’s UX and UI, adapting our existing desktop design system for mobile and defining lesson flows and interaction patterns. I partnered closely with a curriculum writer to align instructional content with interactive activities.
User Research
Learning Design
UI/UX Design
Prototyping
Design Approach
I designed Pioneer around a core hypothesis: middle schoolers learn CS fundamentals best through immediate application, not passive consumption. This informed three key product decisions:
Micro-lesson Architecture
Each lesson pairs a brief conceptual explanation with an immediate hands-on activity, creating a tight feedback loop between theory and practice. This structure reduces cognitive load while maintaining momentum—students experience progress quickly rather than facing a long runway before meaningful interaction.
Persistent Progress Bar
A persistent progress bar provides continuous context about lesson position and remaining time. This wayfinding element reduces anxiety and supports autonomous learning, ensuring students always know where they are and what's next.
Straight Forward UI
Visually highlighted buttons and cards eliminate ambiguity about available actions. Clear visual hierarchy ensures students spend cognitive resources on CS concepts, not on decoding the interface.
Final Designs
Structured Clarity for Self-Directed Learning
Pioneer delivers computer science fundamentals through a mobile-first experience optimized for independent learning. The design prioritizes clarity and momentum, enabling middle school students to build genuine programming skills in short, focused sessions that fit into their daily routines.
