Artificial Intelligence (AI), that has made computers ‘smarter’ enables machines to exhibit human cognitive functions, providing a possibility to implement adaptive learning, also termed as intelligent tutoring. It tailors a personalised learning experience for kids, and can be particularly applicable for kids with special needs.
Dismal State of Affairs
All teachers, at some point of time, complain about children who are inattentive in class and are slow learners. These children who suffer from ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and dyslexia are looked down upon and punished for their poor performance, notorious behaviour, incomplete homework and inattentiveness in class. This worsens the situation further, making them feel dejected.
Next Education and Adaptive Learning
Next Education is one of the first edu-tech companies to adopt the ‘Adaptive Learning’ method for the K-12 sector in India. Based on their performance on this question they are asked the second question and the subsequent ones there is an entire repository of questions fed into the system, where the sequence of questions would be determined as per the capacity of a student.
Customised Learning Solutions
Based on a student’s learning preference and learning style, clustering algorithm are created. Textbooks, self-learning videos, simulation videos, digital classrooms and books are some of the tools a learner can use, but not all of these suit his/her learning needs. For example, children with ADHD have very short attention spans, and therefore neither a long video nor books can meet their needs. They can reap more benefits from digital learning solutions. AI, with its impulse for self-learning becomes an all-knowing machine, fully aware about each learner’s learning process.
Teachers’ Changing Role
Teachers have to be patient in dealing with children having special needs. They should refrain from reprimanding them in front of their peers, and instead of tabooing dyslexia or ADHD as disorders, it should be perceived as a difference in cognition. They also need to follow the adaptive learning techniques and technologies.
The introduction of automatic grading system and digital books has already created abuzz in education and we need to get innovative and excited about the new possibilities like adaptive learning. It can make the learners aware of their own learning habits.
(The author is the CEO and Co-founder, Next Education India)