Shoonya Successfully Completes IES SBIR Phase I.B Project to Advance Multilingual Math Learning
Shoonya is proud to announce the successful completion of its Institute of Education Sciences (IES) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I.B project, marking a significant milestone in the development of our multilingual digital learning platform for elementary students.
Over the past year, Shoonya partnered with researchers from WestEd, educators, and school districts to design, develop, and evaluate new mathematics learning experiences that support multilingual learners while aligning with academic standards.
The Phase I.B project focused on expanding Shoonya's mathematics curriculum with engaging, research-based digital activities designed for Transitional Kindergarten through Grade 2. Throughout the project, the team created and refined interactive learning experiences that emphasize conceptual understanding, mathematical language development, and culturally responsive instruction.
Our mission has always been to ensure that multilingual learners have access to high-quality educational experiences that recognize their strengths while accelerating academic achievement. Completing Phase I.B demonstrates not only the progress of our technology but also the value of designing educational products alongside educators and researchers.
Research-Driven Product Development
As part of the Phase I.B project, Shoonya collaborated closely with WestEd researchers to conduct usability studies with elementary educators. Teacher feedback directly informed product improvements, resulting in a more intuitive experience for both educators and students.
The project also included a feasibilty study that provided valuable insights into student engagement, instructional implementation, and opportunities to strengthen learning progression across mathematics concepts.
Through this iterative research process, Shoonya enhanced:
Interactive multilingual mathematics activities
Teacher assignment and classroom management tools
Student progress monitoring and performance analytics
Standards alignment and instructional sequencing
User experience improvements informed by educator feedback
The result is a stronger platform that better supports teachers in delivering differentiated instruction while providing students with engaging opportunities to build foundational math skills. View the study results here.
Supporting Teachers with Better Data
A major outcome of the Phase I.B project was the continued expansion of Shoonya's Teacher Portal.
Educators can now assign activities to entire classes or individual students while monitoring learning through meaningful classroom analytics. New reporting features provide visibility into student accuracy, learning trends over time, assignment completion, and engagement metrics, helping teachers make informed instructional decisions.
These enhancements reflect Shoonya's commitment to creating tools that fit naturally into classroom instruction and save teachers valuable time.
Looking Ahead
Completion of the IES SBIR Phase I.B project positions Shoonya for the next stage of growth. We plan to continue expanding our multilingual mathematics curriculum, deepen support for educators through enhanced reporting and instructional tools, and strengthen partnerships with schools and districts committed to improving outcomes for multilingual learners.
Shoonya remains focused on developing evidence-based educational technology that combines rigorous academic research with joyful, culturally responsive learning experiences. We are incredibly grateful to the teachers, students, district partners, and the WestEd research team who collaborated with us throughout this project. Their partnership has helped us build a stronger product that reflects the realities of today's classrooms.
As Shoonya looks toward the future, the company remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower educators and help every child build confidence and success in mathematics. Learn more about our upcoming research here.
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