Having been a teacher for over a decade, I have seen my fair share of grading websites.
Each of these websites all share a similar problem in that they are not user friendly, particularly for the daily bedlam of the classroom.
Too often, the interface is cluttered with information that is distracting, unorganized, and outright useless.
While much of the data that these websites offer does have its utility, it does not need to be at the forefront of the user experience.
Based on my experience from Kindergarten through High School, I designed a gradebook concept that caters to the needs of the teacher.
Gradelet fosters a work experience that is simple, efficient, and enjoyable.
Webpage Design
Webpage UX
After prompted to login, the teacher is only provided with 4 choices:
Attendance, Gradebook, Student Profiles, and Personal Profile.
This decision is intended to streamline the flow of necessary actions for the teacher while managing a classroom.
When navigating each tab, the teacher will only be shown the most critical information within in page.
Taking attendance is the first option, followed by entering grades and then individualized student reports.
The clutter of administrative information is buried within the Profile Settings which can be accessed when necessary.
The teacher can access administrative information within the Profile Settings found by clicking on their avatar.
Within their profile, the teacher can update their classes, grading scale, and a variety of other site specific info.
App Design
There are many instances when a teacher’s computer is occupied with a presentation, but still needs to submit attendance, update a student’s grade, or even check for parent contact info. When these situations arise, a phone is the only option to accomplish these tasks. Similar to the website, the mobile version of Gradelet is simple and makes all of these actions swift and easy so that learning can continue without any technical hiccups.
App UX Design
Design Influences
Spotify’s driver view heavily influenced the core fundamentals of Gradelet.
The simplified interface intended to minimize distractions the button design of both the website and app.
The #2 pencil is a classroom icon and it’s influence are seen in the grey and white design as well as the logo.
The Owl of Athena is the inspiration for Gradelet’s logo, being a symbol of “knowledge, wisdom, perspicacity and erudition throughout the Western world.”