IELTSku – AI-Enhanced Test Preparation
A scalable IELTS/TOEFL learning platform democratizing access to quality test preparation for Indonesian learners
The Challenge
Talented Indonesian students were missing international education opportunities due to language testing barriers. Traditional test preparation was expensive, geographically limited, and often failed to address the unique challenges faced by Indonesian English learners.
Geographic Barriers
Limited access to quality preparation resources in remote provinces
High Costs
Traditional coaching unaffordable for many students
Lack of Personalization
Existing digital solutions lacked tailored feedback
Cultural Gaps
Materials designed for global audiences missed local context
Research & Discovery
Our approach began with extensive user research to deeply understand the needs of Indonesian IELTS learners:
- Interviews with 200+ Indonesian IELTS test-takers across all 34 provinces
- Analysis of common error patterns specific to Indonesian English learners
- Consultation with experienced IELTS examiners and educators
- Review of learning science literature on language acquisition and testing
Our Solution
We developed a culturally responsive, AI-powered platform with features specifically designed for Indonesian learners:
AI-Powered Writing Feedback
Immediate, detailed guidance on essays with context-aware suggestions
Accent-Aware Speech Recognition
Speaking practice that understands Indonesian English accents
Social-Emotional Learning
Features to manage test anxiety and build resilience
Offline-First Architecture
Works with limited internet connectivity in rural areas
Technical Implementation
Built with accessibility and performance as core priorities:
Frontend Stack
- • Next.js optimized for low-bandwidth
- • Progressive Web App capabilities
- • Offline-first architecture
AI & Backend
- • Custom NLP models for Indonesian learners
- • Serverless architecture for scalability
- • WhatsApp integration for accessibility
Results & Impact
Since launching in 2020, IELTSku has achieved significant measurable impact:
Students served across all 34 Indonesian provinces
Scholarship placement rate for program graduates
Year-over-year growth in second year
Average score improvement for active users
Beyond the numbers, we've seen transformative stories from students in remote areas who previously had no access to quality preparation resources and are now studying abroad at top universities.
Key Learnings
Context-First Design: Technology must be adapted to local contexts, not the other way around
Holistic Approach: Social-emotional factors are as important as academic content in test preparation
AI as Complement: AI feedback is most effective when it complements rather than replaces human guidance
Future Directions
We're expanding the platform's impact through several strategic initiatives:
- Adapting the model for other standardized tests (TOEFL, SAT, GRE)
- Developing more sophisticated AI coaching for speaking practice
- Creating pathways for successful students to become peer mentors
- Expanding to other Southeast Asian countries with similar needs