This project, rooted in my journey as an international student in the United States since 2014, addresses the unique challenges faced by students like me. My experiences, oscillating between a learner and a mentor, highlight a need for a comprehensive resource that clarifies U.S. laws, academic integrity, and cultural nuances for international students.
Example Storyboard
In this scenario, Alex (the character as a learning facilitator) is at customs and unsure about his visa type. He turns to his friends for advice: Lisa suggests J-1, Max believes it's F-1, and Andy thinks it's M-1. The learner is then prompted to decide who is correct.
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If the correct answer (F-1) is chosen: An animation shows Alex affirming, "That's right! I am a full-time student at college, so it's always F-1."
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If an incorrect answer is chosen: An animation of Alex appears, saying, "Oops, that doesn't feel right!" This leads to a page encouraging the learner to think about why Lisa and Andy provided different answers, emphasizing that they have different visas.
The design's success lies in its realistic depiction of peer interactions, where Alex consults friends about his visa type, mirroring actual student behaviors that correspond to the interviews with participants described earlier in the paper. This scenario-based approach effectively engages learners by placing them in a common, relatable situation. It not only enhances their understanding of different visa types through active participation but also emphasizes the educational value of peer discussions. At the same time, learners receive immediate feedback which fosters deeper comprehension and retention.