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The Estonian Language Institute (EKI), a national Research and Development institution dedicated to ensuring the survival of the Estonian language, faced a dual challenge: they needed to make Estonian language learning more accessible to foreigners while providing teachers with an interactive tool for classroom instruction. The solution needed to be both comprehensive and user-friendly, supporting EKI's mission of language preservation while embracing modern educational technology.
Client:
Institute of the Estonian Language (EKI)
My Role:
UI/UX/Product designer
Year:
2022
Service Provided:
Product Design
EKI Picture Dictionary: Interactive language learning platform
Making Estonian language learning accessible through gamification
Project Overview
Context
EKI's role as a national language authority meant that any solution needed to maintain high educational standards while being accessible to diverse user groups. The project had to align with their public functions, particularly in providing e-services for language learners and supporting educational initiatives.
Key Requirements:
Interactive learning platform
Audio pronunciation support
Example sentence integration
Teacher-friendly interface
Multi-device compatibility
Solution
We developed a responsive picture dictionary that combines visual learning with interactive features, creating an engaging platform for both individual learners and classroom settings.
Core Features
Interactive Flashcard System
Flip-card interface for engaging learning
Audio pronunciation of words
Example sentences with audio playback
Visual representations for vocabulary
Language Support
Multiple language interfaces (Estonian, Russian, Ukrainian, English)
Language level selection (Elementary/Intermediate)
Case-sensitive text display options (aa/AA)
Automatic audio pronunciation toggle
Navigation & Organization
Intuitive category-based navigation
Voice-enabled search functionality
Clear visual hierarchy
Organized content sections
Responsive Design
Fully responsive layout
Mobile-friendly interface
Touch-optimized interactions
Cross-device compatibility
Design Principles
Simplicity First
Clean, uncluttered interface
Clear visual hierarchy
Consistent card layout
Purposeful color usage
Accessibility
High contrast text
Clear typography
Audio support
Multiple language options
Interactive Learning
Gamification through flip cards
Immediate audio feedback
Visual learning support
Contextual examples
Technical Robustness
Modular component architecture
Existing design system integration
Custom card component
Responsive framework
Business Impact
Educational Enhancement
Improved learning experience for Estonian language students
Enhanced teaching capabilities for educators
Interactive tools for classroom engagement
Support for remote and in-person learning
Institutional Benefits
Supports EKI's mission of language preservation
Increases accessibility of Estonian language learning
Provides a modern digital solution for traditional language education
Creates a scalable platform for future expansion
User Benefits
Self-paced learning capability
Multi-modal learning (visual, audio, text)
Cross-device accessibility
Flexible usage patterns
Technical Implementation
The project was implemented using a component-based architecture, leveraging an existing design system while introducing custom elements where needed. Key technical aspects include:
Component Architecture
Integration with existing design library
Custom card component development
Responsive design implementation
Audio system integration
User Interface
Touch-friendly interaction areas
Adaptive layouts
Dynamic spacing system
Consistent cross-device experience
Project Success
Despite the limited timeline, the project successfully delivered all core requirements while maintaining high quality standards. The platform effectively supports EKI's mission while providing a modern, user-friendly learning tool.
Key Achievements
Complete feature implementation within timeline
Successful integration with existing systems
Positive initial user feedback
Strong alignment with institutional goals
Future Potential
The modular design and scalable architecture allow for:
Content expansion
Feature enhancement
Additional language support
Integration with other educational tools
Conclusion
The EKI Picture Dictionary project demonstrates how traditional language learning can be enhanced through thoughtful digital implementation. By combining user-centric design with educational expertise, we created a tool that serves both individual learners and classroom environments while supporting EKI's mission of Estonian language preservation and development.