NYC Subway Survival Handbook
The NYC Subway survival handbook is an interactive eLearning simulation designed to help people become familiar with the New York City subway system.The entire learning experience was developed using Articulate Storyline 360, with all illustrations and written content independently designed and created.
Role: Instructional Design, eLearning Development, illustration, Content Write, Graphic Design, Analyze, Evaluation
Target Audience: People who are unfamiliar with the New York subway
Tool Used: Storyline 360、Illustrator, Procreate, Prodrafts
Year:2025
Motivation
During my undergraduate years in Baltimore, I often took the bus to visit New York. However, my unfamiliarity with the NYC subway system frequently led to wasted time and money.
Later, while attending graduate school in New York, I noticed that my visiting friends faced the exact same challenges.
These repeated experiences inspired me to design a learning solution that addresses the knowledge and skill gaps many newcomers face when navigating the subway.
My goal was to reduce confusion, save time and money, and help people feel confident and comfortable using the NYC subway system—even on their first trip.
Needs Assessment
To validate the learning need, I interviewed 18 friends with varying levels of familiarity with NYC. Every participant expressed a strong desire for a practical, scenario-based guide—especially those who visit the city occasionally.
With six months of living in New York and a strong research skillset, I felt well-equipped to create an accessible, beginner-friendly training.
Learning Objectives
To ensure the course content was accurate and relevant, I collected information from both online and offline sources: I explored the official MTA website and community-driven platforms such as YouTube, Reddit, and RedNotes to gather real user experiences and tips. And I conducted field observations of subway signage across NYC and interviewed local riders to better understand real-world pain points and common mistakes. Based on my observations and research, I identified four core learning goals:
Part 1: Find the Right Train
Learners will be able to identify the correct subway line and train direction using the NYC subway map, signs, and available digital tools.
Part 2: Buy a Ticket
Learners will be able to select the appropriate fare type and successfully complete the ticket purchasing process using the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) ticket vending machines.
Part 3: Safety and Etiquette
Learners will be able to demonstrate awareness of essential subway safety rules and appropriate etiquette to ensure a safe and respectful travel experience.
Part 4: Special Situations
Learners will be able to respond appropriately to common special situations, such as service disruptions, getting lost, and emergencies, by utilizing available resources and communication channels.
Instructional Strategy
believe the best way to learn a real-life skill is to immerse learners in a realistic scenario. I designed this course as an immersive scenario-based simulation. Learners follow a relatable character named Grace through her first NYC subway experience. This character-driven approach encourages empathy and engagement.
Key learning strategies include:
Progress tracking through section-based navigation
Knowledge checks to reinforce learning
Summarized reference sheet for real-world use
Realistic interactions designed to mirror actual subway scenarios
The course structure follows Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction, ensuring learner attention, engagement, and retention.
Design & Development
I simultaneously developed a text-based storyboard and visual mockups, designing Grace’s character based on myself (including her outfit!). Using ProDrafts, I mapped out layout, interactivity, and learner flow. Designed storyboard using Figma, and applied the ADDIE model to guide course development and integrated Gagn´e’s Nine Events to structure scenario-based interactive components. I illustrated all visuals in Procreate and Adobe Illustrator, and developed the full course in Articulate Storyline 360.
Feedback & Iteration
Throughout the development process, I followed the SAM (Successive Approximation Model), iteratively refining the course based on feedback from teachers and friends. Their input allowed me to make improvements from both a professional and user perspective. For example, I received accessibility suggestions that led me to adjust the color scheme for better readability. I also received feedback to improve text clarity—such as changing the second "S" in the SLDS checklist from Speed to Service to better describe the difference between local and express trains.
Outcome
The final product is a polished, user-centered course that empowers learners to confidently navigate the NYC subway. It reflects thoughtful design, strong storytelling, and a commitment to accessibility and learner engagement.