Project Background and Description

In the United States (US), 73% of scientists and engineers are white with less than 2% being African American (AA) women. While AA girls and women comprise 7% of the US population, they are significantly underrepresented in STEM education and professions. Commonly cited barriers to engagement and retention of AA girls and women in STEM fields include gender and racial stereotypes that threaten how they evaluate themselves, absence of role models, inability to see oneself as a “STEM person,” and lack of interest and confidence in STEM subjects. We are developing Kukua - an innovative, fun, and engaging, early childhood STEM as a promotion intervention program for AA girls (4–8 years-old). Kukua will increase STEM skills development and interest from observational, play-based learning, and role modeling. The specific goal of the project is to develop a prototype of the Kukua program with a smart doll, animated video series, and a mobile app, initially for AA girls between the ages of 4-8 years old.

Having already conducted insightful focus group sessions, we now have a solid foundation for the app's initial design. However, we recognize the importance of continuous improvement and innovation. We are seeking a fresh perspective and a boost in creativity to take our initial mock-ups to the next level. As part of the Springboard project, your primary task will be to elevate the existing design, making it even more captivating and high-fidelity for our target audience. We aim to provide a seamless user experience that resonates with both AA girls ages 4 – 8 girls and their parents.

Deliverables

• Improved Low-fidelity Wireframes in Figma
• Interactive Wireframes in Figma
• Design system and style guides 

High-Level Timeline/Schedule

•  Week 1 – Onboarding, Current App Design Walkthrough, IDP Goals, Finalize / Align IDP Plan
• Week 2 – Enhancing low-fidelity wireframes
• Week 3 – Creating high fidelity interactive wireframes
• Week 4 – Creating interactive wireframes and testing with target audience
• Week 5 – Revising interactive wireframes based on user feedback

We will give them thorough background information on the project details and orient them with the project scope and deliverables. We will create a space where team members can communicate with Benten staff to clarify existing hurdles and questions.

 We will also conduct two meetings per week

Status/Q&A Meeting (15 minutes): Schedule early in the week (Monday or Tuesday). This brief meeting will be held to discuss the goals for the week and address any questions or concerns. It will serve as an opportunity for everyone to stay updated on the progress and ensure alignment.

Presentation and Feedback Meeting (30 minutes): Scheduled later in the week (Thursday or Friday). This meeting will provide an opportunity for you to present your work. It will allow for in-depth discussions and constructive feedback to refine further and improve the current system design