Scalable EdTech Product Design for Scaffolded Learning by Stephanie VaranayScalable EdTech Product Design for Scaffolded Learning by Stephanie Varanay

Scalable EdTech Product Design for Scaffolded Learning

Stephanie Varanay

Stephanie Varanay

Elevate: Zero-to-One Product Design for an EdTech Learning Platform

The Challenge
Instructors wanted to teach in stages — breaking complex assignments into structured steps with guided practice and support. This scaffolded learning approach is proven in classrooms, but no online platform existed to support it at scale. At the same time, institutions were increasingly focused on critical skill development as AI reshaped education. Instructors needed visibility into how students were developing skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication — but existing tools didn't track this.
How It Works
The product guides students through one assignment in three phases: an introductory check-in (video, podcast, or quick quiz), guided lessons (the bulk of the work), and a graded assessment (online quiz or essay). Each phase unlocks sequentially, creating a clear path for students working independently at home.

The Goal
Design a product that guides students through a single assignment in three clear phases while giving instructors full visibility into progress and skill development.

What I Did
Led UX research and design across four research phases with 460+ participants
Designed a product from zero to one: a three-phase assignment structure that balances student clarity with instructor control
Built transparent systems for grading, progress tracking, and skill development visibility
Designed and tested prototypes with both instructors and students, then presented findings to stakeholders
Delivered production-ready designs across student and instructor experiences

Results
Validated with 460+ participants across four research phases
76% of institutions surveyed require or encourage critical skill tracking — confirming strong market demand
Designed a product that scales across disciplines and institution types
Shipped and currently in use
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Posted May 29, 2026

Designed a scalable EdTech product for scaffolded learning with 460+ user validation.