MERAKI: An Online Collaborative Learning Platform Developed Using the UWE Methodology

Abstract

In the digital era, education has evolved with the integration of technologies that optimize the teaching-learning process. This article presents the need for more efficient online collaborative environments that overcome the limitations of traditional platforms, fostering meaningful interaction between students and teachers. To address this need, the collaborative platform “MERAKI” was developed using the UML-Based Web Engineering (UWE) methodology. This structured methodology, based on UML diagrams and an iterative and incremental approach, facilitated the development of a flexible and adaptable system. The platform integrates technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, Flask, and PostgreSQL, providing a robust environment with tools for thematic forums, resource sharing, and personalized academic tracking. In contrast to commonly used platforms, which often present challenges such as unintuitive interfaces, limited learning analytics, high costs, or a lack of educational focus, MERAKI addresses these gaps through improved usability, targeted tools for academic interaction, and a user-centered design. User testing revealed high levels of satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.26 out of 5 across aspects like communication, collaboration, and academic organization. These results highlight MERAKI’s effectiveness in enhancing engagement and managing educational activities in virtual environments. The key findings of the model indicate that MERAKI not only offers a comprehensive and personalized solution for collaborative learning but also presents high scalability and adaptability potential for future innovations in digital education, including its application in contexts such as technical education and corporate training.