Implementing Design Thinking: A Mobile Application for Heritage Chinese Learners to Overcome Challenges in Learning Chinese Characters

The increasing prevalence of digital technology in Chinese society has diminished the significance of handwriting, significantly altering the learning needs of Chinese learners. This shift is predominantly seen in the transition from traditional handwriting skills to typing-based proficiencies in the Chinese language. This design case presents the design process of a mobile application, TIC APP, from prototype development, including design decisions, to formulating a plan for evaluation and feedback analysis. Rooted in design thinking principles, the design of this mobile language learning application aims to enhance heritage Chinese learners’ Chinese language learning experiences by promoting typing-based learning. In the presentation of this design case, the authors discuss vital design considerations, transparency in assumptions, the design dilemma of artistic creation and problem-solving, and safeguarding data for research continuity.