role
UX Researcher
skills
Competitive Audit
User Interviews
User Journey
collaborations
Diya Kamboj
Tejasri Addanki
Vinuthna Akurati
Duration
48 hours
OVERVIEW
Our project is an AI-driven, open-world language-learning app made to make learning immersive and engaging. It lets users explore a virtual map, take on quests, and practice real conversations with AI-powered NPCs in everyday scenarios like ordering food or asking for directions. The app adapts to each learner’s pace with personalized feedback, XP-based progression, and community features that encourage social learning. Built for the prompt “Staying human in the age of AI,” it uses technology to support authentic communication, cultural curiosity, and human connection.
THE CHALLENGE
Current language learning apps struggle to balance engagement with effectiveness. While users want gamified experiences, they're frustrated by slow progress and lack of real-world conversational skills.
Engagement Gap
We discovered an opportunity to combine gamification with deeper, more meaningful learning experiences that stick
Conversation Crisis
We found that users are eager to understand not just what to say, but how cultural context shapes authentic communication in different situations
Customization
>
Personalization
There is a need for more personalized feedback to build confidence in pronunciation and natural speech patterns
68.2%
of people surveyed use Duolingo as their preferred platform for learning a new language.
OUR SOLUTION
We reimagined language learning as an adventure game where every interaction moves you forward. Instead of repetitive drills, learners explore virtual cities, complete story-driven quests, and have real conversations with adaptive AI characters. The system personalizes difficulty, provides instant feedback, and rewards genuine progress
Projected Impact
Based on research into game-based learning and conversational AI, we anticipate a ~20% increase in user engagement and improved conversational confidence. While these are projected metrics that would need real-world testing, similar approaches in educational gaming have shown that contextual, story-driven learning significantly improves both retention and motivation compared to traditional methods.
DESIGN DECISIONS
Open World Exploration
The Problem
Traditional language apps rely on structured, linear lessons that users find rigid and boring. Learning feels like a chore rather than an adventure, leading to disengagement and abandonment.
People were more engaged when they could explore topics that interested them, rather than follow a set curriculum
Our Solution
We created a map-based exploration system where learners discover cities, interact with AI-driven NPCs, and complete quests. Instead of passively memorizing vocabulary, users learn through contextual experiences like ordering food at a cafe, asking for directions, or negotiating at a market.
Key Features
Choose your city - Select cities to explore, each with unique markets, cafés, and cultural venues
Progressive Unlocking - New areas unlock as users advance, maintaining excitement
Contextual Learning - Real-world scenarios replace abstract grammar drills
The Impact
Game-based learning improves memory retention and fluency by encouraging experimentation, repetition, and real-time feedback. Users stay engaged longer because they're playing, not studying.
AI-Powered NPC Conversations
The Problem
82% of users preferred interactive dialogues over static lessons, but existing apps rely on pre-scripted conversations with word selection banks. Users felt this didn't prepare them for real conversations with native speakers.
"I can pass lessons easily, but freeze when trying to talk to real people."
Our Solution
We built adaptive AI NPCs that respond dynamically to user input. Instead of selecting from word banks, users speak (via microphone) or type freely. The AI adjusts quest difficulty based on proficiency and past conversations, creating personalized learning paths.
Key Features
Adaptive Difficulty - AI personalizes conversations based on your skill level
Dynamic Responses - No two conversations are the same, just like real life
The Impact
Users develop conversational confidence through meaningful, contextually relevant interactions. By removing scripted responses, we prepare learners for authentic dialogues, improving both listening and speaking skills simultaneously.
Gamifications Through Quests
The Problem
While 74% of users found game-like features motivating, they reported that existing apps' gamification felt like a distraction rather than an effective learning tool. Streaks and gems felt disconnected from actual language progress.
"I love completing challenges that teach me something useful, not just clicking through lessons for points that don't mean anything."
Our Solution
We designed story-driven quests that make learning feel like an adventure. Users earn experience points for completing challenges, unlock accomplishments for mastering skills, and discover cultural easter eggs while exploring. The open-world map lets users choose quest topics based on their interests—whether food, travel, or business conversations.
Key Features
Meaningful Rewards - Unlock new countries, cities, and contents as your learning interest
Story-Driven Quests - Narrative arcs that make learning feel purposeful
Social Connection - Connect with other learners for practice and take an attendance like in school
The Impact
Learning through play reduces cognitive load and increases retention. By giving users choice and autonomy, they progress faster on topics they care about while maintaining motivation through genuine achievement.
Cultural Integration and Pronunciation Practice
The Problem
Pronunciation practice is as essential, yet most apps treat it as an afterthought. Additionally, the research revealed that cultural learning is highly important, but existing apps focus solely on vocabulary without cultural context.
"I want to sound natural, not robotic. And I want to understand why people say things, not just what they say."
Our Solution
We integrated speech recognition technology that provides real-time pronunciation feedback, helping users develop authentic accents. Cultural storytelling features introduce local customs, traditions, and history through interactive content—embedded naturally within quests and NPC conversations.
Key Features
Interactive Storytelling - Learn history and customs through engaging narratives
Authentic Accents - Practice with native speaker voice models
Real-Time Feedback - AI analyzes pronunciation and suggests improvements
The Impact
Users don't just learn how to speak—they understand why and when to use certain phrases. This cultural awareness creates deeper connections and more meaningful language use, preparing learners for real-world interactions with native speakers.
