Company:
Ruhr University Bochum (RUB)
Project Timeline:
Approx. 3 months
Services:
Development, UI/UX design, and concept development
Summary:
As part of an expansion of the FINACC app, two major new features were introduced: an avatar generator that allows students to personalize their profiles and a certificate section that enables users to earn official credentials by completing structured learning paths and assessments. These new features increase interactivity while giving users more opportunities for personalization and providing additional value for their academic development. Throughout the project, particular attention was given to modern technologies and strong data privacy standards.
Challenge
Customizable Avatars:
The app’s existing avatar functionality offered limited personalization options. Students wanted more ways to express their identity through virtual characters. The app also needed to support premium accessories such as clothing, hairstyles, and other items, creating an additional use for the virtual currency “RUBine.”
E-Learning Certificates:
To further establish the app as a central learning tool for students, a system was needed that combined quiz modules with structured learning paths. Students needed to be able to complete assessments and receive digital certificates in a way that was efficient, privacy-compliant, and easy for instructors to verify.
Solution
Interactive Avatars – Greater Personalization Through Gamification:
netTrek integrated an enhanced avatar generator with extensive customization options. More than 100 new hairstyles, clothing items, and accessories were added to encourage greater user interaction. An integrated payment model allows users to purchase premium items using RUBine, providing a practical and engaging way to use the app’s virtual currency.
Quiz Modules and Certificates – Turning Knowledge into Recognition:
The new learning environment is based on SCORM-compatible content created with Articulate. A custom-built importer allows courses to be easily added to the app through an administration tool.
Students complete structured learning paths followed by final quiz modules. After successfully passing an assessment, they receive a personalized certificate as a PDF. Each certificate includes a unique ID that allows instructors to validate it without requiring the permanent storage of personal data.
Results
Project Results:
Greater Personalization:
Students can customize their avatars in significantly more detail, increasing engagement and strengthening their connection with the app. At the same time, the avatar generator provides an effective and sustainable use case for RUBine.
Effective Knowledge Development:
Quiz modules combined with linear learning paths provide a structured approach to learning. The certificate system allows students to document and demonstrate their achievements, creating additional motivation for continued learning.
Privacy-Compliant Certification:
The app maintains high data privacy standards by avoiding the permanent storage of personal information while still providing a transparent and reliable way to validate certificates.
