Alyssa

Hurst

I develop engaging learning experiences by combining game elements and visual design.

 

A profile photo of Alyssa Hurst.

My Work

A computer displaying the starting page of the choking quiz.

Choking Quiz

Custom Storyline Interaction

This quiz uses unique interactions to test learners' knowledge while filling in any gaps.

A computer displaying the starting page of the game Function Factory.

Function Factory

Interactive Algebra Learning Game

This game uses exploration and play to help algebra students create mental models of functions.

An infographic is printed on a paper hanging by a magnet.

Design Projects

A Collection of Graphic Design work

This includes various small projects, such as an infographic, a poster, and a brochure.

Function Factory

Interactive Algebra Learning Game (Prototype)

(Doesn't work on phones)

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Audience

Algebra students from both high school and college

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Responsibilities

Instructional design
Visual and UI Design
Programming
Illustration and Animation
Game Design

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Tools

Godot Game Engine
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Animate
Adobe Premiere

Project Overview

Function Factory is a game for algebra students. It is based on the concept of the function machine, a visual metaphor of functions. To help the main character, Leo, fix his factory, players interact and experiment with function machines until they can label them with the correct operations. As the learners progress through the levels, they’ll start to understand functions as a process. Function Factory is designed to supplement classroom instruction and help students build foundational knowledge they can build on in later lessons.

The Learning Problem

Many students struggle with algebra because functions are often introduced as symbols and equations before conceptual understanding is established. This can lead to:

  • Memorization without comprehension

  • Difficulty connecting graphs, tables, and expressions

  • Math anxiety and low confidence

The goal of this project was to create a learning experience that:

  • Makes the abstract idea of functions concrete

  • Encourages experimentation without fear of failure

  • Builds intuition without relying on formal notation

Learning Objectives

By completing the game, students will be able to:

  • Identify the rule a function applies based on input and output examples

  • Explain a function as a process, not just an equation

Key Design Features

A screenshot of the Function Factory features a worn-out Function Machine. There is an intake valve at the top of the machine labeled with an "x" and an outlet leading to a conveyor belt with a label of "y". In the center of the machine is a label with the

Function Machine

The game centers on the concept of a function machine. This is a visual way to show functions as an input→process→output. The function machine takes an input, changes it according to a rule, and then spits out an output. This rule or process is the function. This supports constructivist learning by helping learners build a mental model of how functions work.

Narrative Elements

Function Factory has a small narrative centered on Leo, who needs help repairing his inherited factory. The story and visual language work together to establish the setting. This supports motivation by giving a purpose to the activities and interest in the story.

A screenshot of the opening page of Function Factory shows Leo waving at you in front of an old, dilapidated factory. At the bottom are the words, "Hey, I'm Leo! Thanks for coming. I really need your help with my new function factory."
This screenshot of the second level of Function Factory features a function machine made up of two smaller machines connected by a tube.

Progressive Difficulty

The game has two levels, each progressing through three stages, to create lots of small wins. This structure uses scaffolding by gradually reducing support, thus helping build confidence and independence.

Intrinsic motivation

Rather than relying heavily on extrinsic rewards, the game turns the math itself into the core gameplay, promoting intrinsic motivation. Learners are encouraged to engage for understanding and completion, while the freedom to move between rooms and levels supports Self-Determination Theory by reinforcing autonomy.

A screenshot of Function Factory's menu shows two doors labeled "1-Step" and "2-Step." On the right, there is a control panel labeled "Settings."

Reflection

This was a student project and had many constraints. Firstly, there was no budget. I only spent money on Adobe Creative Suite. The game engine and sound effects were free. While this was an annoying limitation, it forced me to get creative.Secondly, I worked alone. This was my capstone project and wasn’t a group effort. I took on all the responsibilities, including graphic design, illustration, animation, programming, sound design, etc. I learned many of these skills as I went.Thirdly, there was a set deadline, and this limited the scope of the project. While I wish I could've added more features, the whole project had to be finished in about seven months.

Future Direction

If I were to continue this project, future improvements would include:

  • User testing with target learners

  • Bug fixes

  • Accessibility considerations

  • Additional levels and a clear completion point

  • Improved availability for teachers

  • Supporting lesson plans for classroom use

What This Project Demonstrates

Function Factory demonstrates my ability to incorporate intrinsic motivation and gamification into learning experiences. It also shows how I can make challenging or intimidating subjects, like algebra, approachable, interactive, and enjoyable while still teaching what is needed. Finally, it shows my ability to work within budget and time constraints.

Choking Quiz

Custom Storyline Interaction

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Audience

New Caregivers

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Responsibilities

Instructional Design
E-learning Development
Graphic Design

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Tools

Articulate Storyline
Procreate

Project Overview

This quiz is at the end of a choking prevention course I'm working on. I will publish the full course soon. The target audience is new caregivers at a company that provides community living for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal is to help reduce choking incidents at this company.

Learning Objectives

After the course, students will be able to:

  • Identify choking risks

Key Design Features

A screenshot of the Function Factory features a worn-out Function Machine. There is an intake valve at the top of the machine labeled with an "x" and an outlet leading to a conveyor belt with a label of "y". In the center of the machine is a label with the

Multiple ways to answer

To answer, you can click the buttons, drag and drop, or use the arrow keys. This helps make it adaptable to those with varying technical skills, while the gamified interactions feel smooth and satisfying.

Wrong Answers

If you get an answer wrong, it will tell you why, and then the question will pop up again later. This turns the quiz into instructional material instead of just an assessment.

A screenshot of the opening page of Function Factory shows Leo waving at you in front of an old, dilapidated factory. At the bottom are the words, "Hey, I'm Leo! Thanks for coming. I really need your help with my new function factory."

More coming soon!

Design Projects

Health Infographic

This infographic was created in Canva and summarizes a chapter from Period Repair Manual. This chapter covers habits that support menstrual health, but its depth makes it hard to refer back to. This project turns those tips into a concise visual job aid for the fridge.I prioritized scannability and humor to support recall and new habits. This shows my ability to visually summarize information into a job aid.

An infographic covers general health tips to "Sooth Your System," "Reduce Inflammation," and "Nourish Yourself." There is a silly cartoon of a woman beside each section.
A mockup displaying a poster with a paper-cut illustration of water coming out of a faucet, a tote bag with a water-drop logo and the words Aqua Sure, and two brochures, one open and one closed, with a blue and white paper-cut design.

Aqua Sure Campaign

Aqua Sure was a group student project designing materials for a mock campaign. Using Adobe Illustrator and InDesign, I created a poster, brochure, and tote bag while other team members created a logo and social media posts. To ensure all our designs were cohesive, our team decided on visual guidelines including color palette, font, and style.I focused on visual consistency, layouts, and fonts. This project demonstrates my ability to collaborate with a team and follow brand guidelines.

Support Teachers Campaign

Support Teachers was another student project. I used Adobe Illustrator and InDesign to create one design and adapted it for a poster, brochure, and postcard.I focused on a warm, friendly style to match the message. This project shows my ability to create print materials.

A mockup of a poster, brochure, and postcard that all have a symmetrical illustration of two teachers in a folk-art style and the words Support Teachers.
A comic showing a prince traveling far to rescue a princess. The princess is offended and says she doesn't need his help. She is promptly eaten by a monster.

Damsel in Distress

This was a fun project exploring comics. They are an interesting way to combine illustrations and text to convey information. I used Adobe Illustrator for the illustrations and layout. I used a complementary color palette and humor to teach a moral lesson about not letting your pride stop you from accepting help.I focused on visual interest and composition. This project shows my ability to use unique forms of media to share information.