How AI is Transforming Education

According to eSchool News reports, artificial intelligence will be used 47.5% more in education by the end of 2021. Keep reading to learn how AI is transforming the learning system worldwide.

Cost optimization

AI usage helps a lot in work automation. For example, to answer students' questions 24/7, universities need to hire a lot of people, which leads to increased spending that is often not in the budget. To solve this issue, the University of Staffordshire in the UK launched Beacon, an AI-based chatbot. It never tires of repetitive, monotonous requests and can replace three to four employees. The chatbot, downloaded as a mobile app, informs students about schedule changes and invites them to join university communities. With Beacon's help, students can also apply for a council tax exemption, order new student cards, and connect with faculty members.

Students can communicate with Beacon via text or voice messages. The AI bot can self-learn, retain information, and, as a result, gradually expand its functions. According to the developers' forecast, it will soon remind students of lessons and deadlines.

New learning program development

Learning methods are changing with AI development. Currently, AI systems create customized textbooks on specific subjects based on traditional educational programs. New online learning services are also appearing. For example, Cram 101 uses AI to make coursebook content more user friendly and simplify navigation of chapters, flashcards, and practice tests. Another useful AI development is Netex Learning, which helps teachers integrate interactive audio and video materials into their lessons. With Netex Learning, even teachers with limited technical skills can create their learning plans for various digital platforms and devices.

Monitoring student learning and exams

Currently, more and more schools and universities are switching to blended or online education. Due to the spread of the coronavirus, this trend has become even more popular. Meanwhile, it is barely possible to know how students study at home and whether they cheat on online exams. Subsequently, the matter of control is quite critical for schools and universities.

AI proctoring systems can solve this issue perfectly. Their main task is to determine how honestly students take online tests. The entire exam is recorded with a webcam and microphone on the student's device, allowing AI and a human proctor to track examinees' actions.

Some systems' manufacturers also offer advanced software functionality that helps to minimize errors and allows using proctoring for more than written exams. Examus proctoring technologies can track the usage of drafts and notes, unknown voices in the room, other people on the screen, monitor the desktop state such as switching between browser tabs or opening extra files and programs, and even analyze the level of involvement in the process. Therefore, our solution can be successfully applied in both oral and written exams and throughout the learning process. Examus AI proctoring technology has recently been shortlisted for the QS Reimagine Education Awards in the "Artificial intelligence" nomination.