CourseConnect
Exploring how students navigate course selection through a centralized platform
Intro
As a part of a 10-week UX/UI design bootcamp with Bits of Good—a Georgia Tech computer science organization focused on building digital products for local Atlanta non-profits, my partner and I decided to focus on an aspect that all Georgia Tech students share regardless of year or major—registering for courses.
How can design improve student experiences?
Navigating academic courses and making informed decisions can be overwhelming for students due to limited course information. Students often struggle to access accurate information about classes and find peers for guidance, leading to frustration and inefficiencies in their academic journey.
Our solution: Simplifying course selection
A centralized course information hub and peer discussion board to streamline the process of finding class details and connecting with fellow students
Identify key challenges students face in making informed course decisions
Understand pain points related to course selection, including lack of detailed, updated information, fragmented resources, and unhelpful advising.
Explore how students gather course information and peer feedback
Investigate the tools, platforms, and social networks students rely on, and the role of peer insights in course selection and decision-making.
Analyze the impact of inefficient systems on academic planning
Examine how the absence of centralized, relevant resources affects students' ability to plan their academic journey and choose courses effectively.
Information Gaps
Outdated syllabi and vague course descriptions make it difficult to find reliable and accurate course details.
Inefficient Process
The course selection process is tedious, confusing, and fragmented across multiple forums.
Lack of Communication
No dedicated space for discussion and lack of confidence in advisors hinder decision-making.
Mia
Mia is a 2nd year design major. As a transfer student registering for courses, she struggles with vague course descriptions and limited connections, leaving her overwhelmed by the lack of reliable information and peer advice.
Jordan
Jordan is a 3rd year computer science major. He spends hours navigating various forums for limited information on higher-level courses. He feels uncertain about his course load and is frustrated by the inefficiency of the process.
