The Ryze mobile first app and content creation platform from Studious Digital Education, a Norwich Business School, University of East Anglia spinout, represents a breakthrough in educational technology specifically designed to bridge the engagement gap between traditional academic delivery methods and the digital consumption habits of today's students. The innovation directly addresses one of higher education's most pressing challenges: maintaining student attention, involvement and engagement in academic learning against a wider societal background of technology dominated by competing short-form, visually stimulating content platforms. Unlike conventional learning management systems, Ryze incorporates gamification elements that transform education from a passive experience into an interactive journey. Students create personalised avatars and earn points for completing lessons, knowledge-checks and modules, introducing achievement-based motivation into the academic experience. This game-like framework maintains engagement through intrinsic reward systems that appeal to Gen Z's preference for interactive experiences as well as providing a professional place for executive learners on management training programmes to engage with content in-between meetings and busy working lifestyles. What distinguishes Ryze from many educational technologies is its grounding in pedagogical research. Rather than simply digitising traditional pedagogical materials, the platform fundamentally reimagines content delivery based on evidence-based educational principles, enhanced by vibrant visuals and interactive elements specifically designed to maintain cognitive engagement and meet the expectations and flexible learning styles of today’s students.

Dr Ivan Mitchell
Co-CEO / Associate Professor
Norwich Business School,  University of East Anglia



James Gardiner
Co-CEO / Associate Professor and Associate Dean - Employability
Norwich Business School,  University of East Anglia

We would like to acknowledge the contributions of many people along the way, though none more than Dr Sarah Warnes of University College London. Sarah was a co-founder and brought immense inspiration and imagination to the apps and team, particularly as the initiative was in its early days. Thank you Sarah for all you have done.

We would also like to thank the founding Board too, colleagues that have offered immense guidance, coaching and support during our years of operating. Thank you, Prof Frances Bowen and Jason Brown, for all your insight and guidance over the years.