Abstract

SES/ECE

Project Name

Soma

Description

According to the Census Bureau's estimation for 2020, 50% of U.S. children under the age of 18 are members of ethnic minority groups [1]. And this number has continued to rise since then. As America has become a more diverse country, many immigrants have struggled with losing their heritage and native language in pursuit of assimilating into American culture. As a result, not only have they lost confidence in their native language, but it has become nearly impossible to pass it down and instill their culture in their children. For families and parents like this, Soma is a mobile app that has provided multi-faceted, bilingual children’s books that teach a second language through reading translated books. Unlike Unuhi or Duolingo, Soma has touched upon multiple learning styles with karaoke reading and flashcard-like pictures that keep both parents and children entertained and enjoying learning. With this application, families have fostered a love for learning and a love for their culture together in a more interactive way. This has helped alleviate feelings and diaspora and foster a more understanding and homogeneous community.

Member(s)

Akash Rana, Christian Diesen, Elizabeth Samayoa, Jonathan Melamed, Sean Austin Hodges, Tahrim Imon

Advisor(s)

Professor Kevin Lu

Doctor Ommer Khaw