Case Study
The Maximize Project
Elevating classroom management through gamified professional development
Services
- Technology Consulting
- User Experience Design
- Visual and Interaction Design
- Full-Stack Development
- CI/CD Pipelines
- Third-party API Integration
- Competitor Analysis
Deliverables
- Innovative Software Platform
- Data Visualization Dashboards
- Gamified User Experience
- Future-Focused Architecture
- Secure Data Management
- Interactive Prototypes
- Comprehensive Knowledge Base
Executive Summary
Maximize is an innovative platform designed in collaboration with the Center for Intervention Research in Schools (CIRS) at Ohio University, aimed at equipping K-12 educators with essential classroom management strategies.
Delivered through a gamified web app, Maximize provides a structured learning journey using a dynamic game board layout that enhances professional development for educators. Addressing key challenges such as flexible content management and data reporting, the platform effectively engages users while allowing the research team to gather comprehensive data.
Launched successfully in Fall 2024, Maximize has received acclaim for its vibrant design and efficient workflows. Future plans include continuous improvements based on user feedback and potential commercialization to extend its reach, reinforcing its role in advancing education with cutting-edge solutions.
Collaborating with Jacob Reid has been a remarkably rewarding experience. Jacob consistently brings fresh ideas to the table and remains receptive to our feedback, which has significantly enhanced the quality of our collaboration and product.
Introduction
Maximize emerged from a partnership with the Center for Intervention Research in Schools (CIRS) at Ohio University, focusing on addressing the practical needs of K-12 educators seeking effective classroom management strategies. Recognizing the necessity for accessible and impactful professional development, CIRS collaborated on developing this platform to integrate research-based content with modern technological tools.
The result is Maximize — a web app designed to deliver engaging, structured learning experiences that align with CIRS's commitment to improving educational practices through practical, research-driven solutions.
Project Challenges and Objectives
The ultimate goal of Maximize was to equip educators with effective classroom management strategies via an online professional development (PD) platform.
A significant project challenge was providing the research team with a flexible content management solution for PD modules, as well as providing comprehensive data reporting capabilities. Additionally, the platform needed to deliver real value efficiently due to educators' limited free time, ensuring engagement without overwhelming users.
Discovery
The discovery phase consisted of frequent meetings with project leadership, which provided ongoing insights into essential requirements. We analyzed leading educational tools to identify effective strategies and features, ensuring Maximize incorporated proven principles for engagement and learning. Additionally, we evaluated potential third-party integrations to enhance content management and data reporting.
Design and Prototyping
During the design and prototyping phase, we focused on crafting an engaging and intuitive platform guided by user-centered design principles.
We used gamification elements to create a visually appealing game board and clearly defined user journeys that guided educators through their learning process. This approach was aimed at maximizing user engagement and ensuring an efficient learning experience.
Additionally, we integrated a mobile-friendly interface to ensure accessibility and convenience for users interacting with the platform on various devices.
Development
During the development phase, we implemented a state-of-the-art web app using React and Laravel PHP for dynamic content delivery and data collection.
A key enhancement was the custom integration with the Qualtrics survey platform, allowing the research team to manage PD modules flexibly and gain comprehensive data insights. This setup facilitated effective content management and data reporting, critical for both educational impact and research purposes.
Deployment and Success
The successful deployment of Maximize 2.0 in Fall 2024 marked a significant milestone, with the platform quickly gaining praise from educators. Users appreciated the vibrant design, gamified elements, and clearly defined workflows that made the learning process both engaging and efficient. The ability to earn continuing education credits further incentivized participation among busy educators.
The research team benefited from comprehensive data collection capabilities, contributing valuable insights for future publications. Maximize's deployment demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating innovative design with modern technological solutions to meet the needs of both educators and researchers.
Future Development
The research team plans to use the data collected to publish insights on classroom management strategies, which will guide improvements to ensure Maximize remains an effective resource for educators.
Additionally, we are exploring commercialization to expand Maximize's impact in the educational market. By sharing research findings and increasing accessibility, we aim to equip more educators with essential management tools and contribute to educational progress.
Conclusion
Maximize exemplifies the successful synergy between educational expertise and innovative technology to address the crucial need for effective classroom management strategies. Developed in partnership with CIRS at Ohio University, the platform integrates research-backed professional development content with engaging gamification elements, providing educators with a meaningful and efficient learning experience.
The platform's positive reception underscores the importance of user-centered design and adaptability to meet the demands of the educational landscape. As Maximize continues to evolve and explore commercialization opportunities, it is set to make a lasting impact on education, equipping educators with tools to navigate the complexities of today's diverse classrooms.
Jacob Reid has consistently delivered high-quality services, marked by his dedication to frequent communication and active engagement. His approach ensures that the ideas and expertise of all stakeholders are seamlessly integrated into our product, strengthening our partnership and driving its continuous evolution.