For my CAS project, Shravya & I developed a website called MYP Companion (MYP Hub)—an all-in-one platform designed to support students in the Middle Years Programme (MYP) with effective study tools, resources, and strategies. The main aim of this project was to make academic life easier, more organized, and more balanced by combining productivity features with subject-specific guidance and healthy habits. To evaluate the efficiency of the website, I also created a Google Survey form and rolled it out to all MYP students, gathering their feedback for improvements. Through this process, I developed several IB Learner Profile attributes: I became an Inquirer by researching relevant resources, a Thinker by solving technical and design challenges, and a Communicator by engaging with peers and presenting ideas clearly. I also grew as a Balanced learner by managing my own responsibilities while promoting balance for others, and as a Reflective learner by using student feedback to refine and improve the website.
The platform includes:
- Dashboard
The homepage provides a quick overview with motivational quotes, productivity tips, daily affirmations, and easy access to core tools. This helps students start their day with focus and positivity. - Interactive Study Timetable
A customizable scheduling tool that allows students to plan their weekly study sessions. With color coding and flexibility, this feature promotes time management and helps prevent procrastination. - Subject-Specific Tips
Detailed guidance for every MYP subject, including Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Language & Literature, and more. Each subject section highlights key concepts, effective study techniques, common challenges, and solutions. - Pomodoro Timer
A built-in timer to apply the Pomodoro Technique, encouraging students to study in focused intervals with breaks. This tool enhances productivity, prevents burnout, and helps students manage distractions. - Healthy Habits Tracker
A unique addition that integrates wellness into academics. Students can log movement, stretch breaks, and water intake. It also provides quick workout suggestions aligned with MYP PE goals, ensuring balance between physical health and academics. - Curated Resources Library
A collection of high-quality study resources, including guides, notes, interactive tools, and videos across all MYP subjects. This central hub ensures students have reliable materials for revision and practice.
Personal Learning & Growth
Through this project, I learned the importance of combining academics with well-being. Many student platforms focus only on grades and study schedules, but I wanted mine to address holistic success—including motivation, health, and balance. Building the website also improved my technical skills in design and development, while reinforcing key CAS learning outcomes like creativity, collaboration, and perseverance.
Most importantly, the project showed me the value of creating something by students, for students. My peers tested the platform and shared feedback, which I incorporated to make it more user-friendly and effective.
CAS Learning Outcomes Reflected in My Project
LO1 – Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
Through building the MYP Companion website, I identified my strengths in creativity, planning, and digital design. At the same time, I realized I needed to improve my technical coding skills and time management. This project helped me grow in both areas as I worked to create a functional, user-friendly platform.
LO2 – Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills
The project presented challenges, especially when integrating features like the Pomodoro timer and interactive timetable. Overcoming these obstacles required problem-solving, research, and experimentation, which allowed me to develop new skills in web development and project execution.
LO3 – Initiate and plan a CAS experience
I took full initiative in designing and planning this CAS project from scratch. From brainstorming the idea to structuring the website with sections like study tips, resources, and healthy habits, the project reflects my ability to plan and implement a meaningful CAS experience.
LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience
Developing a platform of this scale required consistent effort and perseverance. I encountered setbacks in coding and design, but I remained committed to refining the site until it met my vision. This demonstrates resilience and dedication.
LO5 – Demonstrate skills and benefits of working collaboratively
Although I led the project independently, I sought feedback from peers and teachers to refine the platform. Their input helped me understand user needs better, showing the value of collaboration in improving outcomes.
LO6 – Engagement with issues of global significance
The project addresses the global issue of student well-being and academic stress. By combining study tools with health-focused features, it promotes balance, productivity, and wellness—issues that affect students worldwide, not just in my community.
LO7 – Recognise and consider the ethics of choices and actions
I made sure all resources included in the platform were reliable, free to access, and ethically shared. I also considered inclusivity, ensuring the website supported students across subjects and needs without promoting unhealthy study habits.
