Ecosystem Design, Design Thinking, AI-powered
2024
Project Manager & UX Designer
PROJECT INFO
Overview
Managing an after-school program presents unique challenges, from ensuring a structured yet engaging learning environment to fostering strong connections between educators, students, and parents.
This case study explores how I Used AI Tools to identify key issues, implemente innovative solutions, and transformed the program into a high-functioning ecosystem that prioritized educational excellence and community engagement.
My ROle
Program Manager & UX Designer
Outcome
68% increase in user satisfaction within two months
150% boost in program participation rates
86% of parents reported that their children enjoyed the program.
DISCOVERY
Being an active listener
In my initial days, I dedicated time to observing various aspects of the program without jumping to talk: Classroom dynamics, student engagement, educators' interactions with students, parent interactions, classroom design, materials, budget constraints, school staff involvement, and Overall Culture.
Prioritizing the problems
Core insights gathered…
Checkout system issues
The online checkout system required parents to use a specific passcode, but frequent errors occurred due to connectivity issues or forgotten passwords. The self-service approach limited the team's ability to address these problems in real-time.
Unstructured curriculumn
Despite a strong curriculum with diverse learning opportunities, the team lacked clarity on structure, leading to inconsistent implementation.
Poor engagements
The existing structure did not fully support a sense of community among students, educators, and parents.
solution 1
Smart checkouts: Faster and more connected
I set up two tablets for check-out and divided the students into two groups: Kindergarten-1st grade and 2nd-5th grade. Each group was assigned two educators with clear expectations and structured processes. Parents now check out their children through an educator, ensuring real-time assistance and an opportunity to build stronger relationships.
solution 2
Redesigned workflows and enhanced learning materials
I restructured the schedule based on class sizes, dismissal times, and seasonal factors like sunset times. The revised schedule included diverse programs designed with AI and research-backed methods.
solution 3
Designing a newsletter to strengthen community engagement
I built a strong connection between the program and parents by organizing events, designing a newsletter, and creating a photo album to share activities and memories with the kids.
solution 4
Creativity and connection: Monthly art shows
To bring parents closer to their children's experiences, I considered some spaces of the class for monthly art shows where kids could proudly display their creative work. I planned and held 3 Art shows.
solution 5
Transparency and connection: Memory albums
I covered all the activities we designed with the kids and shared them in an online photo album accessible to everyone.
What I enjoyed…
Connecting with people, seeing their smiles, and hearing their positive feedback.
Facing daily challenges and identifying areas for growth. 🎯
Recognizing the potential in each team member, supporting and empowering them.
And finally, being around kids and spreading the love of learning. ❤️❤️