c3Design
Based closely on the University of Virginia’s internationally-recognized Course Design Institute, c3Design won a 2016 POD Innovation Award because it is a highly interactive online learning environment that guides instructors through the iterative, dynamic, and scholarly process of learning-focused course design. More than anything else, c3Design is about a process that helps instructors unlock new perspectives and possibilities. Several innovative features support this goal: a series of well-crafted knowledge checks, an automated syllabus template, a novel integration map, a syllabus rubric, a fully searchable syllabus database.
Role:
Creative Director, Designer
Team:
Adarsh Char, Project Manager
Bill Hall, Lead Developer
The project started by developing an Identity and Visual Style.
The point of the app is to guide instructors through the iterative, step-by-step process of developing a robust and learner-centered syllabus. When you dive deeper into c3Design’s process, it becomes apparent that understanding how the steps integrate and overlap is the key to mastering the course design process.
The logo was designed to emphasize the form, movement and symmetry of that process. This is achieved through symmetrical letter forms, reverse color schemes and the use of familiar movement tropes like “follow the bouncing ball.”
Finishing the icon as a medallion emphasized the desired goal of not only achieving excellence but also teaching it through this repeatable process.
Then we applied the style to the development documents so the project kicked off with a universal polished look and feel.
Infographics and other take-aways were created to visually emphasize key points and give users something to refer to quickly. A common style was applied across all pieces which included a library of long-shadow style icons.
Throughout the experience, familiar shapes, colors and styles inform the UI creating a sense of familiarity and comfort allowing them to focus more on learning and less on how to navigate or guessing what comes next.
