Project Brief

Paint Your Own Star is a digital drawing board that fosters self-esteem through art education for left-behind Jingpo children.

Role

Interaction Designer, Programmer

Tools

HTML, CSS, JavaScript

(p5.js)

Type

Individual Project

Duration

1 month

How might we design an educational technology solution to help Jingpo minority left-behind children build self-esteem?

THE PROBLEM


Challenges in Education along the Myanmar-China Border

The education and development of vulnerable children in the ethnic villages along the China-Myanmar border in Dehong, Yunnan, is an urgent issue due to high drug abuse, HIV, school dropout rates, youth crime, human trafficking, early marriage, and abuse.

Children I met volunteering at Prop Roots, a organization in Yunnan, China that aims to support and empower Jingpo children by providing a platform for healthy development, cultural preservation, and protection from harmful influences like drugs.

THE SOLUTION

Introducing Paint Your Own Star

Unlock Creativity and Build Confidence in Every Child.

"Paint Your Own Star" is an electronic drawing tool designed to inspire creativity and boost self-esteem in children. By allowing them to easily create symmetrical "stars," it offers an accessible way to experience the joy of creation. This tool helps kids build confidence, as their creativity and sense of accomplishment come together, lighting the way for personal growth.

THE PROCESS

Programming

This drawing tool was coded in JavaScript with the use of p5.js library, HTML, and CSS.

Testing

This drawing tool was tested with K-12 children and refined based on their feedback to enhance engagement and usability.

THE RESULT

Paint Your Own Star was integrated in the art education of Prop Root’s curriculum

Paint Your Own Star invited each student to paint a unique star, igniting their passion for art. Together, their stars created a collaborative ‘starry night’ that celebrated individual creativity and fostered unity. Integrated into Prop Roots' curriculum, this project gave every child a chance to shine and express their dreams through art.