Decoded
-
Role
Founder
-
Programme
Oxford University Innovation StEP Ignite 2023
-
Focus
EdTech, Research-Driven Design, Student Success
Most students rely on outdated study methods that feel productive but fail to support long-term learning or wellbeing. Decoded was our response: a research-backed EdTech concept that combines learning science across memory, motivation and mental health with insights from over 30 interviews with Oxford graduate students to design a smarter AI learning companion.
Built and validated through Oxford’s StEP Ignite programme and real-world feedback, we pitched the concept live at the Intellect Horizon conference and presented our findings at Parliament’s Global Educational Leadership Awards.
What We Set Out to Do
Our starting point wasn’t just a product idea. It was a disconnect we couldn’t ignore. Despite their capabilities, many students struggle not because they lack motivation, but because they rely on techniques like rereading, highlighting or passive review—methods that feel productive in the moment but do little to build real understanding or lasting retention.
We explored decades of learning science and spoke with over 30 Oxford graduate students about their study journeys. The result was clear: the most effective strategies, including retrieval practice, spaced repetition, interleaving and varied learning, are rarely taught, often misunderstood, and difficult to apply without support.
Decoded set out to close this gap, especially for students without strong mentors or academic guidance. We aimed to make these research-backed methods accessible, intuitive and responsive to the learner’s emotional and cognitive needs. Rather than building another productivity tracker, we designed Decoded as a learning companion—one that supports not only how you study, but how you feel while studying, by reducing burnout, reinforcing self-efficacy and promoting sustainable progress.
Designed to Think with You
Every feature in Decoded is grounded in research and shaped by real student stories—tailored to how learners think, feel, and grow.
Personalised Feedback
AI adapts in real time using retrieval and performance data to help students learn more effectively.
Mental Health Nudges
Embedded prompts encourage breaks, rest, and reflection to reduce burnout and support emotional resilience.
Gamified Tools
AR games, avatars, and habit streaks boost motivation and make learning feel like progress, not pressure.
Smart Scheduling
Built on spacing and desirable difficulty principles, our planner helps learners stay consistent without overwhelm.
From Insight to Impact
At the Intellect Horizon conference and the British Parliament, Decoded attracted strong interest from students, educators, and EdTech innovators. As one of the two core team members, I co-led the development of the brand identity, user discovery process, and pitch deck—helping shape both the business model and the platform vision. Through this hands-on work, I refined my ability to ask the right questions, extract insights from qualitative research, and communicate effectively across technical and non-technical audiences. I also gained fluency in tools that turn abstract ideas into tangible, compelling concepts.
Why It Matters
Decoded reminded us that learning itself must be learned. While the product didn’t go to market, the journey reshaped how I think about digital learning and continues to influence my approach across disciplines. As a first-generation academic, this project remains especially close to my heart. I’d welcome conversations with anyone passionate about reimagining the future of learning—particularly through the lens of AI.