PROCESS
Design Methodology
The WelcomeAR project employs a structured methodology to navigate the systemic disorientation experienced by international students. By rooting our design journey in rigorous user research and iterative interaction cycles, we transform fragmented orientation processes into a cohesive, spatial experience that reduces cognitive load and fosters academic belonging.
The Double Diamond Framework
Discover
Define
Develop
Deliver
USER INTERVIEWS & SECONDARY RESEARCH
SYNTHESIZATION & USER JOURNEY FLOWS
AR PROTOTYPING & VISUAL DESIGN
USABILITY EVALUATION & ITERATION
Phase 01
Discover
The discovery phase was dedicated to uncovering the 'invisible hurdles' international students face during their initial transition. By employing divergent thinking, we explored the holistic problem space without technical constraints, ensuring our solutions address real-world friction points.
We utilized qualitative research methods to build a foundation of empathy and objective data. This involved deep-dive sessions with both students and administrative staff to map the entire orientation ecosystem at UNF Canada.
- In-depth Qualitative Interviews
- Stakeholder Ecosystem Mapping
- Competitive Gap Analysis
- Secondary Literary Research
Phase 02
Define
In this critical synthesis phase, we translated the raw qualitative data from student orientation interviews into a definitive problem space. By pinpointing 'Digital Dislocation' as the primary barrier to integration, we established the functional priorities for the WelcomeAR platform, focusing on real-time spatial support and contextual information delivery.
- Data Synthesis: Grouping findings into navigation, culture, and cognitive load themes.
- User Personas: Refining target profiles for new international arrivals.
- Design Principles: Defining readability and safety standards for AR interactions.
- Scope Definition: Prioritizing immediate campus orientation features.
Phase 03
Develop
The Develop phase is where conceptual research translates into tangible spatial computing infrastructure. During this stage, we architect the core interaction models that define how WelcomeAR functions within the UNF campus environment.
Our priority is reducing the cognitive load on international students by ensuring that every digital marker is intuitive and contextually relevant to their immediate real-world surroundings, facilitating a smoother social and spatial orientation experience.
- Architecture of spatial wireframes and interaction flows
- Defining precise AR navigational markers and UI patterns
- Creation of high-fidelity visual assets and environments
- Rapid prototyping cycles and internal peer review sessions
Phase 04
Deliver
The final phase focuses on synthesizing testing data into a production-ready spatial interface. We ensure that the WelcomeAR solution seamlessly integrates with the physical campus environment, providing a reliable and accessible digital layer for student orientation.
- Final UI/UX optimization based on user flows
- High-fidelity 3D asset deployment
- UNF campus integration audit
- Performance testing across diverse lighting conditions
Insight 01
Spatial
Orientation
AR directional markers significantly reduced spatial anxiety and cognitive load during initial campus orientation.
- 40% faster navigation times to key support offices
- Eliminated 're-orientation' stops during transit
- High user confidence in multi-level building navigation
Preliminary Validation Insights
Prior to the formal Capstone implementation, an exploratory usability validation was conducted during a Design Thinking research phase. These early insights informed the refinement of the WelcomeAR prototype and shaped the research hypotheses guiding the Capstone evaluation cycle.
The findings below represent directional insights rather than finalized performance metrics.
Insight 02
Information Accessibility
The multilingual translation feature bridged critical gaps in bureaucratic and administrative comprehension.
- 95% successful translation of physical administrative signage
- Reduced dependence on peer translation assistance
- Increased early engagement with international student services​
Insight 03
Social
Integration
Visualizing community 'hotspots' and social markers encouraged students to step beyond their comfort zones.
- Higher participation rates in orientation events
- Reduced social 'static' through clearer digital context
- Positive sentiment towards mixed-reality campus belonging
01
Spatial Navigation Accuracy
Capstone Validation Strategy (Upcoming)
Findings from this phase will be documented and integrated into the final Capstone evaluation report.
The formal Capstone evaluation will involve task-based usability testing with newly arrived international students at Niagara Falls University.
The validation process will evaluate the following performance indicators: