The Role of AI in e-Learning: Can It Enhance Learning and Personalization?

Everyone comprehends, understands, and processes information differently. That’s why you need to have an e-learning module that adapts itself to every type of learner. AI-powered personalized e-learning helps appeal to different preferences, drive engagement and so enhance learning outcomes. Some of the most successful learning apps around the world use AI to make learning better and more personal. 

US-based language learning app Duolingo, which has more than 300 million users and more than 32 language courses, works on a personalized learning approach. Each question or challenge on the app’s tests, for example, is adaptively chosen based on the previous question, and whether the user got it right or wrong. This app has become one of the most popular language-learning applications – in part at least, thanks to this style of AI-powered adaptive learning. 

Similarly, the math tutoring app Thinkster uses AI to deliver personalized tutoring to students by customizing questions based on the learner’s knowledge level.

Real-life examples are plentiful, and so are the studies that show the benefits of a personalized approach to learning. A 2021 meta-analysis looked at 16 randomized, controlled trials in five low-to-middle-income countries, involving 53,029 learners aged 6-15 years. It examined the impact of students’ use of technology that adapts learning content to the learning level and found that overall, technology-supported personalized e-learning was found to have a statistically significant positive impact on learning.

What kind of personalization are we talking about? Well, it could be anything from adjusting course material based on learner use and preferences to adding videos, audio, and AR/VR overlays, or even virtual tutoring components that can help identify errors. AIaaS is making rapid strides in the arena of e-learning and is set to grow to $840.11 billion by 2030.

So, how does AI enhance personalization in e-learning?

1. It provides real-time feedback and makes learning adaptive

An AI-powered personalized e-learning system can give learners feedback in real time. It then re-routes the learning path based on this feedback. AI can also design personalized assessments based on learner proficiency and cognitive abilities.

2. It makes interaction and personalization natural

Since generative AI in education uses natural language processing in e-learning, it can interact with learners in a more personalized, engaging, and accessible way. As AI understands human language in its natural spoken and written form, it is easier for students to interact with the system based on which the learning material can be personalized.

3. It helps educators plan better

With AI-enabled predictive analytics, students can track their own progress while working through the modules. This makes it easier to assign tasks efficiently, provide feedback and develop insightful reports on the learning progress and pace.

4. It simplifies content creation

If only content creation for e-learning courses could be automated – how much time would be saved! To a large extent, this is now possible thanks to natural language processing in e-learning and generative AI in education. This can be done based on the AI’s understanding of the learner’s objectives, comprehension, and speed of learning. Automated content development and adaptation can help create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment.

If you are looking for ways to AI-power your e-learning content to make it more engaging, immersive, and supportive, and give your learners a more rewarding, enriching, and personalized experience, contact Hornbill FX. Let us help you take your AI game to the next level.