StudyBuddy

Inspiration

Ever needed help on a problem set right away, but didn't know who to call? Your go-to friends couldn't figure it out? There might have been someone close by who could help, but you had no way of knowing. We've been there before, and we created StudyBuddy to ensure that you won't have to struggle alone ever again.

What it does

StudyBuddy consists of an online website and iOS application which work seamlessly together to enable students to quickly and conveniently reach out and study with classmates they may not already know. Students initiate study sessions, and classmates who enter range receive notifications and can choose to check in and join the fun.

How we built it

We created the website using HTML, CSS, and PHP and the iOS application is written in Swift. Both the website and app reference a database created with mySQL which stores college courses and student information. The website and app pull location information using the Google Maps API and phone GPS respectively.

Challenges we ran into

We had to find a way of allowing students to find nearby help without compromising the privacy of others. This is why students who create study sessions do not receive specific location coordinates or identities of other users, only the number of classmates within range. Classmates have to indicate that they wish to be visible by checking into a study session or creating one themselves.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We are proud that we were able to create a hack that addresses an issue we have personally experienced.

What we learned

We learned how to find location information using the Google Maps API and GPS, and how to integrate our app and website to work seamlessly together.

What's next for StudyBuddy

Expand number of educational institutions supported to reach more students
Support course section filter in addition to those of course department and number for increased specificity