Buddhist Curriculum Framework
Middle Way Education’s curriculum framework was transformed from a static Google Sheet into an interactive web platform. Features include searchable Learning Goals via Algolia, favourites stored in localStorage, shareable filter URLs, an AI lesson-planning helper, integrated site design, and a Looker Studio dashboard for engagement analytics, enhancing accessibility and usability.
Brief
Middle Way Education was developing a comprehensive curriculum framework to support its educational programs. At the time, the framework existed as a Google Sheet, which limited usability and interactivity. The original plan for a web version was primarily as a marketing tool to showcase the framework online.
I was approached to explore the potential of a more interactive solution. Drawing on recent experience integrating Algolia search into another project, I proposed a web platform that would allow users to fully explore the Learning Goals (component parts of the framework) rather than just view them passively.
Approach
Challenges
Transforming a static spreadsheet into a dynamic, interactive experience:
The framework included multiple Learning Goals with layered components, which needed to be navigable, searchable, and easily explored online.
Design integration and differentiation:
The framework had to be visually integrated into the existing site, but clearly distinguishable from other content, such as the Teaching Resources section.
Persistent, user-focused features without heavy infrastructure:
Features like “favouriting” Learning Goals needed to persist across browser sessions, but a full membership system was deemed unnecessary and discarded.
Measuring engagement:
The board required insight into how users interacted with the framework, including searches, views, and other interactions.
Outcome
Interactive Learning Goals Exploration
Users can explore Learning Goals with rich search and filter options.
Each search and filter state is encoded into the URL, allowing users to share specific views with others.
Favourites System
Users can mark Learning Goals as favourites.
Instead of creating a membership system, localStorage is used to persist favourites across browser sessions.
AI Helper Tool
An AI-inspired lesson planning helper provides educators with a structured JSON of data from the Learning Goals, along with prompt templates to guide lesson plan creation.
While not connected to a live API at launch, it acts as a ready-to-use scaffold for AI integration.
Design Integration
The framework was integrated into the website’s design, ensuring consistency with the existing brand while being distinct from other content like Teaching Resources.
Analytics & Monitoring
A Looker Studio dashboard was implemented to track views, search events, favourites, and other engagement metrics.
This allows the board to monitor usage and make data-driven decisions for curriculum development and online engagement.
Users can search, filter, favourite, and share Learning Goals, enhancing engagement and collaboration.
The AI helper tool provides structured support for lesson planning, ready for future API integration.
The board has real-time analytics via Looker Studio, enabling better oversight and decision-making.
The curriculum framework was transformed from a static spreadsheet into a dynamic, interactive web platform.
I recommend Mark without reservation for web development projects requiring both technical excellence and the ability to work collaboratively with non-technical stakeholders to realize ambitious visions.