π€ ChatGPT is not the only AI-powered learning platform you should know
How BYJU'S, Squirrel AI, and Quipper are using AI to create a smarter, more accessible education system
The era of AI is in the near future. And it started already. Since the release of chatGPT by OpenAI, you might have encountered people afraid of Artificial Intelligence (AI). However, AI might be one of the most powerful tool we have ever invented and where the humanity will have the ability to learn how to innovate & generate new ideas. But what can it do for education?
Hey everyone, thanks for coming back to bowl of tech π where each month, I humbly break down the growth strategy and product experience of the top mobile apps in Asia.
In this April's post, the focus is on AI and how BYJU'S, Squirrel AI, and Quipper started to transform education in Asia - way before chatGPT.
With chatGPT, kids can now use AI to write essays and do homework. And we should try to understand how it is going to impact the education system.
βI think that technology advancement, you cannot trying to ignore it or trying to avoid it. Itβs happening. Itβs like water. You cannot block it. You have to go with it.β
Dr. Li Jiang, director of Stanford AIRE program
In Asia, many companies & startups are already using AI to improve access to education and provide personalised learning experiences. Edtech companies like Byju's, Squirrel AI, and Quipper has the potential to revolutionise the way people learn and teach in Asia. Let's explore how these companies are harnessing the power of AI to revolutionise education.
BYJU'S - India's edtech unicorn
BYJU'S is one of India's leading edtech companies, with over 80 million users and a valuation of $6 billion. It has emerged as a pioneer in using AI to personalise the learning experience for students. The company's flagship app provides interactive video lessons and quizzes on a wide range of subjects, including math, science, and history. But what sets BYJU'S apart is its use of AI to track student progress and customise lessons to their individual needs.
The app's adaptive algorithm analyses data on student performance and behavior to identify knowledge gaps and areas where they need additional help. Based on this analysis, the app recommends personalised lesson plans and exercises to help students strengthen their weak areas. This approach not only helps students learn more effectively, but also reduces the burden on teachers, who can use the app to monitor student progress and identify areas where they need additional support.
BYJU'S has also leveraged AI to create a unique feature called "Ask Doubts," which allows students to upload photos of their homework or practice problems and receive instant solutions from the app's AI-powered tutors. The app's AI algorithm uses natural language processing (NLP) to understand the student's query and provide personalised solutions that address their specific problem.
Looking ahead, BYJU'S is continuing to invest in AI and explore new ways to enhance the learning experience for students. The company has recently launched a new AI-powered feature called "BYJU'S Future School," which offers live online classes in math and coding for students in grades 1-12. The platform uses AI-powered assessments to create personalised learning plans for each student and provide real-time feedback on their progress.
Squirrel AI - personalised learning for chinese students
Squirrel AI is a Chinese education company that has developed an AI-powered adaptive learning system. Their system can identify each student's unique learning needs and provide personalised lessons. The company's platform uses adaptive learning algorithms and data analytics to create a customised curriculum for each student, which is designed to maximise their learning potential.
One of the unique features of Squirrel AI is its use of "Learning Factors Analysis," which is an AI-powered system that analyses each student's learning style, speed, and strengths to determine the best approach to their education. The figure below from ResearchGate illustrates the Squirrel AI Learning system which include:
Formative assessments to determine the studentβs ability level
Problems targeted to the studentβs ability level
Instant, intelligent feedback including elaborated explanations
Supports (e.g. tutorials) differentiated by ability level.
This allows Squirrel AI to provide personalised learning paths for each student, including customised homework assignments and assessments.
Another innovative feature of Squirrel AI is its use of "AI Teachers." These AI-powered teachers can identify when a student is struggling with a particular concept and provide targeted assistance to help them overcome their difficulties. This not only allows students to receive personalised attention but also reduces the workload on teachers, who can focus on higher-level tasks such as creating lesson plans and providing feedback.
Squirrel AI has also created a platform that allows students to track their progress and receive real-time feedback on their performance. This helps students identify areas where they need to improve and provides motivation to continue learning. In addition, Squirrel AI's platform provides parents with regular updates on their child's progress, allowing them to be more engaged in their child's education.
By providing personalised learning experiences, targeted assistance, and real-time feedback, Squirrel AI is improving student outcomes and helping to bridge the achievement gap.
Quipper AI - personalised learning for students
Quipper is a Japanese company that is leveraging AI to bring high-quality education to students in Indonesia & the Philippines. The company's platform offers a range of online courses, assessments, and other learning materials that are specifically designed to meet the needs of students in the region.
One of the unique features of Quipper is its use of "Adaptive Learning." This AI-powered system uses data analytics to create a personalised learning path for each student, based on their individual strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. This allows students to learn at their own pace and ensures that they receive the support they need to achieve their educational goals.
Another innovative feature of Quipper is its use of "Smart Feedback." This AI-powered system provides students with immediate feedback on their performance, highlighting areas where they need to improve and providing suggestions for how they can do so.
This not only helps students to learn more effectively but also reduces the workload on teachers, who no longer need to manually grade assessments and provide feedback.
AI is transforming education in Asia, and the possibilities for the future are endless. However, there are also challenges that must be addressed, such as the need for adequate infrastructure and training for educators. As AI continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of AI in education, creating a brighter future for learners in Asia and beyond.
That's all for now. See you next month !
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