Redesigning a Composing Tool for Accessibility

By applying a user-centered design approach, I identified a gap in inclusive learning tools for students with disabilities in traditional music education. Drawing on my experience as a Music Educator, I redesigned the QGrooves composition tool to address this need, keeping core features like real-time playback and customization options while simplifying tasks based on access points which are alternative standards for students with cognitive disabilities.

Project Overview
Image of a slide with a description of a redesigned interactive composing tool, QGrooves, that aims to be more accessible for students with disabilities. The slide also includes the project duration of 2 weeks.
Slide displaying the problem statement and project goal. The problem statement highlights the lack of inclusive music education tools for students with disabilities, while the project goal focuses on redesigning a composing tool to enhance accessibility and provide equitable learning opportunities.
Image of a slide outlining the pain points identified through user research.
Image of slide highlighting the key pain points for students with disabilities in the music classroom, this was identified through the user research process.
Starting the design
Paper wireframes illustrating the redesigned music composition tool, featuring two new modes. The design maintains key features while simplifying tasks based on access points, which are alternative academic standards to support students with cognitive disabilities in engaging with the general curriculum.

Designing for Inclusion:Paper Wireframes

Digital wireframe showcasing the Independent Mode of the redesigned music composition tool. It preserves key features such as real-time playback and customization options, while enhancing opportunities for student independence in music creation.
Digital wireframe displaying the Participatory Mode of the redesigned music composition tool. Students can choose their preferred melodies and adjust tempo and instrumentation, fostering independence in their musical choices.

Lo-fi Prototype: Independent 

Lo-fi Prototype: Participatory

Image of a slide outlining the parameters for a usability study.
Image of a slide summarizing the findings of a usability study.
Refining the design
Image of a high-fidelity prototype of the redesigned QGrooves music composition tool. The prototype showcases the final design, including the user interface, navigation elements, and interactive features.

Independent Prototype

Participatory Prototype

Accessibility considerations for the redesigned tool, including simplifying tasks using access points to ensure all learners can engage at their level. Collaboration with special education teachers helped tailor the product to meet students' needs. High-contrast colors were applied to ensure readability for low-vision users, in compliance with WCAG 2.1 AA and AAA guidelines.
Going forward
Image of a slide summarizing the key takeaways from the project.
Slide showing the next three steps for the project, outlining the upcoming actions for further development and improvement.
For a more detailed view of the presentation, you can access the full slide deck here: 
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