LoveLangs

LoveLangs: Talk Differently To Me

LoveLangs is an app where people connect through learning languages. As users work together to get closer to achieving fluency in their target languages, they break down cultural barriers along the way and make friends from all over the world. LoveLangs also includes basic translation software, vocabulary memorization tools, and free resources to further language education.

On my own initiative, I enrolled in and successfully completed UX Design Fundamentals, an online course on Coursera. In four weeks, I learned about the basic elements of UX design, as well as how to thoughtfully create wireframes and prototypes. To complete the final assignment for the course, I quickly learned to use Figma to create a clickable prototype of an original idea for an app. Inspired by my love for learning languages, I came up with LoveLangs, which combines social media with language-learning apps (like Duolingo and Memrise) to make language learning convenient and socially engaging for people all over the world.

This was the first app I have designed and created wireframes and prototypes for. I am currently working on a second version of the clickable prototype to make the app more streamlined, with a consistent and user-friendly design across all parts of the app.

UX design is a continuous process and ongoing effort. Products and tools are constantly being expanded and built upon, and that's why I'm passionate about it -- there is always more to learn. With that said, I am always open to suggestions and feedback on my work. Feel free to contact me; I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Goals

Through creating and designing LoveLangs, I aimed to accomplish three main goals:
1. Promote language learning (educational)
2. Build community (social)
3. Break down language and cultural barriers (social)

Functions

1. Connect users who are learning the same languages so they can practice communication through text and speech in their target language
2. Translation tool (like Google Translate) that receives and incorporates feedback from users
3. Vocabulary practice and memorization tool that can send reminders to users to practice
4. Resources for learning languages, such as books, movies, websites, online courses, etc.

In the clickable prototype, users will be prompted to complete the following functions:
1. Create an account or sign in
2. Translation tool
3. Access resources recommended by the app and other users

LoveLangs is for users who...

1. Are busy: Without sufficient time to invest in learning a new language, it is difficult to improve at it.
2. Want consistency: Taking short breaks between language learning sessions can be helpful, but taking too much time between sessions can result in forgetting and having to relearn things.
3. Want to save money: Many people pay for private/group language classes but others may not want to spend money on such classes or do not have the financial resources to do so.
4. Want to be social: Learning languages tends to be more fun and motivating with other people. For self-taught learners, this can be a good opportunity to socialize and make new friends!

Sample user profile: Jane Smith

Jane Smith is a 35-year-old woman who lives by herself in California, works remotely full-time, and is extremely frugal with her money. At the beginning of quarantine, she found some free time on her hands and decided to learn Chinese by herself through free online resources. However, her new working schedule is about to start, which will leave her with less free time to practice Chinese consistently and spend time with her friends. Jane is looking for something that will motivate her to learn Chinese and maintain her social life, all while managing a busy work schedule.