Creating Web Apps That Limit Attention Harm Based on the A.S.M. Models is an applied research and development project in which students will design, build, and deploy a functional web application using Base44. Each project must address a clearly defined form of attention harm—such as compulsive use patterns, manipulative engagement design, excessive notifications, distraction, or other digital experiences that undermine users’ well-being, agency, or focus.

Students will use the A.S.M. models as the guiding framework for their application’s purpose, user experience, features, and safeguards. The final product must demonstrate how intentional web design can reduce harmful attention practices while promoting more responsible, transparent, and user-centered digital interaction.

After deployment, each student’s application will be tested through C.A.S. to evaluate whether it meets the applicable A.S.M. standards. This assessment will examine whether the app’s design, functionality, and user-flow decisions align with the project’s stated attention-harm reduction goals. Students should be prepared to document their design rationale, identify the specific standards their app addresses, and respond to findings generated through the C.A.S. testing process.

Students are also required to present their completed project during Research Week in the Spring. Presentations should explain the attention-related issue the app addresses, the A.S.M. standards used to guide development, the Base44 deployment process, the C.A.S. testing results, and any changes made to strengthen compliance with the standards.

Required deliverables
A deployed web application built in Base44

A written explanation of the attention harm the app is designed to limit

Documentation showing how the app applies the A.S.M. models

C.A.S. testing and a review of the app’s results against A.S.M. standards

A Spring Research Week presentation demonstrating the app, findings, and design rationale

*This is not for someone who lacks time management skills*