Next, Next, TutorNest
TutorNest is a mobile-first platform that connects students with tutors through smart matching, seamless scheduling, and in-app tools for learning and communication. Designed to reduce friction and boost student motivation, the app balances structure with flexibility — supporting learners and educators alike.
Category
UX/UI
Brand
TutorNest
Skills
User Research Behavioral Personas Journey Mapping Feature Prioritization User Flows Mobile Wireframing Usability Testing
My Role
Research & Interview Planning Persona & Journey Mapping UX Flow Design Wireframing (Low-Fi & High-Fi) Usability Test Design & Analysis
Context
TutorNest was built to solve a common challenge: students want to learn — but often lack structure, motivation, and the right mentor. Tutors, in turn, need better ways to manage sessions, engage meaningfully, and support student progress.
Through interviews and surveys with both groups, we uncovered shared frustrations: distractions, unclear expectations, and limited tools to build trust or track growth.
The insight: motivation alone isn’t enough — learners need clarity, support, and momentum.
We focused on designing a product that empowers both students and tutors by meeting them where they are.
Project Goal
Design an intuitive tutoring platform that helps students find the right mentors, stay engaged, and progress with clarity — while giving tutors the tools to manage sessions, communicate effectively, and support learning outcomes.
Problem
Students today face more than just a lack of access — they face a fragmented, demotivating learning experience.
Our research revealed three core barriers shaping the modern tutoring landscape:
Lack of structure and guidance — students feel lost, unsure how to start or stay on track
Low motivation and follow-through — especially without progress feedback or connection
Tool limitations for tutors — making it harder to manage sessions, personalize support, or build trust
We’re not just solving usability — we’re addressing a wicked problem in modern education:
how to align flexibility, motivation, and mentorship in a digital-first world.
Market Scan
Many platforms start with content. Few start with the learner.
→ TutorNest aims to begin with the person, then build the path.
Even strong tools fall flat when users lack direction or emotional hook.
→ We focus on early momentum through clarity, trust, and small wins.
Persona
Insights
The tutor and student need a clear, structured platform — the tutor to efficiently organize and share materials within limited time, and the student to stay motivated and focused without feeling overwhelmed.
We believe that {action / solution} for {user} will {result / impact}.
We believe that providing flexible tools for tutors and students will improve clarity, motivation, and learning outcomes.
How might we simplify connection and discovery for tutors and students so that learning feels personal, efficient, and motivating?
Process
Experience Architecture
Prioritization
✅
Prioritized
• Built-in search and filters → Key to fast tutor discovery
• Profile matching + tags → Helps align learning styles early
• Notebook + calendar → Boosts user organization and retention
❌
Deprioritized
• Gamified elements → Fun but not essential for MVP utility
• Peer comparison tools → Risk of distraction, low value vs. effort
• AI auto-sorting → Complex, moved to future phase for testing impact
User Validation
Moderated usability tests revealed:
What worked well:
Users described the app as “clear and user-friendly”
Core tasks (login, search, profile edit) were completed easily
Navigation felt “smooth and intuitive”
Several users said they’d “use the app in real life”
Areas to improve:
Some icons were unclear (e.g., profile vs. community, calendar)
Users were confused by redundant UI (e.g., two search bars)
Misclicks occurred due to inactive buttons or unclear next steps
Community section was misunderstood by most participants
Impact
Next Steps
Smarter tutor filtering + review system
Gamified nudges to maintain motivation
A/B testing homepage variations
Tutor dashboards for prep and lesson management
