Transforming Remote Learning with Lillup: User Research on Markmap Format for Educational Innovation
Oct 30, 2025
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In an age where technology shapes how we learn, remote learning has quickly shifted from an option to a necessity. Students and educators alike face the challenge of maintaining engagement and understanding in this new way of learning. One promising approach that has emerged is the Markmap Format.
This tool, initially designed for visualizing AI components, is being adapted to enhance education by promoting clarity through layers of information. This case study shares insights from user research on the Markmap Format, exploring its potential to revolutionize learning and mind mapping in remote environments.
My Role: UX/UI Lead and Researcher
Tools Used: Figma, Miro, Google Sheets
Understanding Markmap Format
The Markmap Format is exceptional at handling complex information with the help of visual tools. It deconstructs topics into linked layers, enabling learners to effortlessly explore different concepts. This approach not only improves comprehension but also encourages critical thinking and creativity.
A team and I, consisting of 6 UX/UI interns, outlined our objective and conducted surveys and interviews to thoroughly grasp the current user understanding and determine how we could integrate various elements of the Markmap Format into our interface.
Challenge
To find a way to communicate and customize a new study approach for individuals in a company.
Goal
Conduct user surveys and interviews to thoroughly understand mindmapping formulas and effectively incorporate them into company learning and employee development.
Why is this important?
Employees should be able to understand and execute their tasks efficiently with minimal guidance after training. They should also have the opportunity to expand their expertise into various areas to improve their financial situation. This strategy allows both the company and its employees to develop without relying on external hires, fostering a continuous learning cycle that sustains its position in any business sector.
Methods Used
Beyond Desk Research for a general understanding, the UX/UI team:
Conducts a competitive analysis of current companies using remote learning and Mind mapping
Developed 10 Questions and carried out user interviews
To gain insight into the frustrations and processes that remote learners currently experience.
Creating an understanding of the frustrations and processes that remote learners utilize now
Demographics for interviews
Age range 25-45
Mindset - either entering the workforce or willing to educate themselves to gain a promotion. As well as not in a place to retire
Created a User Journey based off of the information collected during desk work and user interviews.
What is Remote Learning?
Remote learning is, simply put, where the student and the educator are not physically present in a traditional classroom environment. Rather, instruction is disseminated through technology tools such as discussion boards, video conferencing, and virtual assessments.
Benefits:
Self-Paced Learning
Provides education to those who might not have any other opportunities.
Personalizing your learning space
Helps with visual learning.
Frustrations:
Lack social interaction
Technology can be fickle
Easy to find distractions
Current learning methods used by students
7 different types of learning styles:
Visual
Auditory
Reading and writing
Kinesthetic
Learning while playing games or with real-life experiences
Verbal
Social learning
Group setting
Solitary
How this affects remote learning:
Certain types of learning might not be accommodated due to the solitary style
Uncertainty of feedback or assistance from instructors
Students have to be aware of the lack of motivation and accountability within a remote setting.
Key points of Desk Research
Competitive Analysis
For the competitive analysis I looked into 11 companies that had similar understandings of the 2 methods of mind mapping that were instructed by the stake holder to implement. Mind mapping and remote learning
How is Talent Passport addressing the pitfalls of remote learning?
Employing AI for coaching and mind mapping
Focusing on two types of learning for long-term comprehension and short-term clarification
Introducing Mind Mapping for skill retention
User Interviews
Each member involved with the Talent Passport for the application interface needed to carry out 5-10 user interviews using 10 pre-selected questions. Each interview would last approximately 15-30 minutes.
Key takeaways from interviews
Understandings Moving Forward
User Journey
User experience and accessibility emerged as vital themes during the research. Participants highlighted the need for an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation and customization. The ability to create personalized mind maps tailored to individual learning styles was deemed a game changer.
Moreover, ensuring accessibility for all learners, including those with disabilities, was a major concern. Our team is committed to making the Markmap Format inclusive. Features such as text-to-speech, adjustable color contrast, and easy keyboard navigation are being prioritized, ensuring every learner can benefit.
Moving Forward in Educational Innovation
Our user research indicates that the Markmap Format holds great promise for transforming remote learning by introducing innovative educational methods and mind mapping techniques. By catering to different learning styles and offering strong visual representation, it can enhance engagement and comprehension among learners. As we address the challenges of remote education, tools like the Markmap Format are essential for creating a more effective learning environment.
To support both long-term learning and immediate understanding, certain areas should be prioritized for memory retention. This leads to a diverse set of features centered around the interface's main focus.
Focus:
Incorporate real-world scenarios into learning
Include structured note-taking elements
Introduce AI and its potential to enhance note-taking
Explore methods to integrate gamification into courses to prevent information overload without retention
Blending adaptability with a self-directed approach to learning.
Emphasizing the diverse methods of learning individuals use.
