User Profile

Methodology

Insights, Themes, Workflows

JTBD & Constraints

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In our user research, we gathered valuable information about how teachers in the San Francisco Bay Area ("Silicon Valley") prepare and use resources, particularly digital ones. We held qualitative, 1x1 interviews, some in context (at a school). We gathered data:

Teacher Research

While we realize that these teachers do not represent the needs of all teachers everywhere, we are starting with their needs and building from there. Here are some high-level insights. These are all paraphrased and summarized, but allow us to get into the shoes of a teacher, to some extent:

• No matter where it comes from, I always have to adapt content, but it is hard, so I don't always do it.
• A 'successful day' is based on the feedback that I get regarding the expectations I have for my students and for myself.
• Prepping is an intense planning and customization activity subject to many external pressures like moving schedules, changing standards, and team changes.
• Differentiation allows me to engage students at varied levels or interests, but it requires extra effort, immediate feedback, and deep subject expertise.
• I consider the textbook to be just an outline, so I'm always looking for new, relevant content, even though it takes a lot of time.
• I recognize creation and curation as both forms of ownership, but neither stops me from sharing with my colleagues.
• I complement my teaching with additional materials, but it's hard to control the exact experience and learning path.
• Tool lock-in is a worry, but if it's clear how it will fit my workflow from the start I might use it.
• Not all kids learn in the same way, so I like to mix things up to keep myself and the kids engaged.
• Staying on top of plans and dealing with multiple classrooms and limited class time is challenging.
• I have a strong sense of right and wrong, but the legal framework doesn't match that.

Here's a snapshot of what a day/week/year looks like, at a very high level:

Teacher's Journey