Study Buddies
Study Buddies is an all-inclusive app and web plugin/extension. It aims to bridge the communications gap and transform students’ online learning and studying experience through their virtual pets.
By integrating gamification and companionship into the online learning and studying experience, Study Buddies can transform personal study habits and environment into a more immersive, engaging and rewarding process because learning does not stop at the classroom but outside of it too. The virtual pet caters to a student’s social and educational needs, recognising that not all learners thrive in the same environment; by empowering students to personalise their own experience, Study Buddies provides an additional layer of support that aids them in their studying journey and habits. Via the app, the virtual pet seamlessly integrates into a student’s workflow by joining their study sessions through study timers combined with breaks, celebrating the completion of tasks and goals and studying with other virtual pets. Students can earn XP ad coins to personalise virtual pets and their environments as they progress, creating a sense of ownership, motivation and accountability. Study Buddies also extends into popular teleconferencing apps, enabling students to bring their pets to online classes, interact with peers and build relationships with their tutors. This real-time interaction within the virtual classroom spaces aims to provide students with a sense of belonging, socialisation, and higher levels of engagement. In doing so, Study Buddies fosters an inclusive online learning environment, encourages student participation, and increases motivation while considering individual education and social needs. This design solution seeks to create a more positive and social atmosphere while being the middle ground for students who do not have access to cameras, microphones or suitable learning.
BRAINSTORMING
When developing the identity and personality for Study Buddies, I wanted to create an app that felt fun and cozy as, typically, studying and learning should be an engaging yet calm experience. I chose fantasy creatures as the design of the pet as a way to break out of the everyday experience and induce it with something mystical rather than like a cow, a dog or a bird.
MEET THE CHARACTERS
I wanted each pet to have its own distinct colour palette and personality and be able to be customisable. Keeping to typical pixel-art games, each pet has two versions: one that will be seen interacting with the space and one that will be used for dialogue.
FURNITURE AND UX/UI ELEMENTS
There were multiple redesigns of the background. Originally, there were no divided sections; instead, there was just one big space. It felt dull and boring, so I added an extra ‘room’ to give students more variety in their space. If developed further, students may be able to decide where these divided sections go as the house can expand as the student progresses. The furniture can be moved at different viewpoints, providing higher levels of customisation. The UX/UI components reflect the rustic style of the background and vibe of Study Buddies.
FINAL OUTCOME