Ology Cards for the American Museum of Natural History
UI/UX · Product · Real-world
We redesigned OLogy’s science cards so kids don’t just read; they do. By scanning physical OLogy cards, children unlock AR scenes with lightweight interactions and a micro-quiz, turning curiosity into hands-on discovery.
Static, digital-only cards were easy to browse but hard to stay with. Kids lacked a rewarding bridge between physical collecting and digital content.
We first aimed to make cards more animated. Testing showed the real ask wasn’t more motion; it was a simple, physical action that unlocks a digital moment.
AR Card System
Kids scan a card; a themed 3D scene appears with micro-interactions and a one-question quiz. Each scene ends with a tiny win (sound, motion, sticker/badge), nudging them to scan the next card.
User Interface
Key decisions
• Marker-based AR for reliable scans on classroom devices
• Lightweight 3D optimized for entry-level tablets/phones
• One-tap quiz with encouraging feedback
• Session flow that chains one scan into the next
• Lightweight 3D optimized for entry-level tablets/phones
• One-tap quiz with encouraging feedback
• Session flow that chains one scan into the next
What’s Next
• AR exhibit unlocks: scan real objects in the museum to reveal linked cards
• Educator dashboard: track topics explored via scans
• Accessibility: color/text sizes and scene alternatives for diverse reading levels
• Educator dashboard: track topics explored via scans
• Accessibility: color/text sizes and scene alternatives for diverse reading levels
Role & Collaboration
I led visual design (card system, AR overlay UI, motion language) and co-drove product decisions with the team through quick prototyping and kid/educator feedback
Our Process
Next steps
• Connect AR cards with museum exhibits and scavenger hunts
• Teacher mode for classroom sets and shared devices
• Accessibility: voice hints and captioned audio for younger readers
• Teacher mode for classroom sets and shared devices
• Accessibility: voice hints and captioned audio for younger readers