Simplifying access for every educator
Project Overview
As a Product & Instructional Design Intern at MetaMetrics, I was tasked with reimagining the usability, accessibility, and delivery of the module workbooks used in the Lexile® & Quantile® Educator Academy—a professional learning program designed to help educators apply Lexile and Quantile frameworks in their instruction.
The existing workbooks were difficult to edit, download, and not well integrated into MetaMetrics’ learning management system (Canvas). Through a multi-phase design process, I developed a more accessible, user-friendly solution that now supports educators across the country and internationally.
Design Process
Phase 1: Diagnosing the Problem
I began by reviewing educator feedback and internal reports to identify the key usability challenges. Common issues included:
- Lack of interactivity
- Confusion around instructions
- Difficulties accessing or editing materials
- Frequent loss of work
Phase 2: Platform Evaluation
Next, I researched alternative tools that could better meet the needs of our educators and support international access. After benchmarking several options, I recommended a shift to Google Slides and Canva due to their accessibility, ease of editing, and compatibility with Canvas.
Phase 3: Prototype Development
Using Canva and Google Slides, I built an interactive prototype that incorporated editable fields, embedded instructions, and consistent visual hierarchy. The design was grounded in instructional scaffolding techniques and aligned with WCAG accessibility standards to support diverse learners.
Phase 4: User Testing & Iteration
I led focus group testing with educator ambassadors, gathering qualitative feedback to improve both functionality and clarity. Based on insights from these sessions, I refined layout elements, improved contrast, clarified language, and enhanced overall navigation.
Phase 5: Launch & Documentation
I finalized a fully updated, user-centered set of eight module workbooks designed specifically for use within Canvas. I also rewrote workbook instructions to align with the LMS experience and created internal user guides to support future product designers in scaling and maintaining the system.
Project Results
The result was a redesigned workbook experience that is more accessible, easier to use, and scalable for future instructional initiatives. This project strengthened my skills in UX design, accessibility, instructional systems, LMS alignment, and collaborative product development.
Rylee Jacobson 