Artificial intelligence (AI) is making its mark in the field of education, with various applications such as ChatGPT’s large language model and AI-powered writing coaches. While students have been quick to adopt AI tools, educators have been slower to integrate this technology into their teaching methods. However, textbook publisher Pearson aims to change this trend by introducing an AI assistant for instructors.
Pearson’s AI assistant is designed to help teachers create personalized assignments for students and streamline the process of preparing course materials. Set to be launched in August on Pearson’s MyLab and Mastering platforms, this tool will enable instructors to efficiently design courses, assign homework, and monitor student progress.
During a demonstration for ZDNET, Chris Hess, Pearson’s director of AI product management, showcased how a math teacher could use the AI tool to generate assignments with specific difficulty levels. By selecting questions from a chapter of a textbook, the tool suggests the optimal questions, saving instructors valuable time that would have been spent searching through hundreds of questions manually.
The ultimate goal of Pearson’s AI assistant is to reduce administrative tasks and allow educators to focus on more personalized teaching methods. With continued use, the tool will adapt to an instructor’s preferences, making course management more efficient and effective.
Pearson’s research highlighted a gap between student and instructor implementation of AI tools in education. While many students are utilizing AI to enhance their study habits, instructors are less confident in their ability to incorporate these technologies into their teaching practices. By providing AI tools tailored for educators, Pearson aims to bridge this gap and empower teachers to leverage AI in their classrooms.
In addition to aiding instructors, Pearson has also developed AI study tools for students. These tools, integrated into eTextbooks, offer personalized guidance, content summaries, and explanations for challenging concepts. With 50 titles set to feature these tools in the upcoming fall semester, Pearson is committed to enhancing the learning experience for both educators and students.
As the landscape of education continues to evolve, AI technology holds the potential to revolutionize teaching practices and improve student outcomes. By responsibly deploying AI tools vetted by experts and learning scientists, Pearson is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into educational environments.
With the introduction of AI assistants for instructors and study tools for students, Pearson is paving the way for a more efficient and personalized learning experience. As educators embrace the benefits of AI technology, they can look forward to a future where administrative tasks are streamlined, allowing for more meaningful interactions with students and focused attention on individual learning needs.
