Artificial Intelligence is transforming the eLearning field. Read on to learn the benefits and drawbacks of using AI in eLearning.
Transforming eLearning Through Artificial Intelligence
Rapid development in IT has remodeled the way we learn or train. While the world is embracing eLearning as the preferred mode of training, the developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have opened up a new era of training. AI is the new buzzword in the IT industry. Although AI has been around for quite some time, it has recently gained immense attention among experts in all fields. AI is rapidly transforming how industries work, and the eLearning sector is no exception.
First, let’s understand what Artificial Intelligence is. In simple terms, AI is nothing but a computer program that tries to mimic human intelligence. It attempts to accomplish tasks that need some understanding rather than routine processing work that common machines or programs do. Let’s take the example of an AI-powered chatbot. It is an automated program to chat with real people and respond to their queries. The chatbot is trained with a huge amount of chat records, through which it learns how to respond to a particular chat. This is called machine learning where the program keeps learning from feeds.
AI programs work on three processes—learning, reasoning, and self-correction. Learning refers to acquiring data and turning it into meaningful information. Reasoning refers to processing the information to arrive at a conclusion. Self-correction means continuously fine-tuning algorithms to keep increasing the accuracy of results. In short, AI can be used to gather data, get insight from the data and predict the trend, and make suggestions. Let’s see how this can be utilized in the training and learning industry.
Developments
There has been considerable progress in the utilization of AI in eLearning. Some of these are as follows:
- Personalized Learning
AI is used to analyze a learner’s learning pace, strengths, and weaknesses. This insight is used to create a customized learning plan that caters to their specific needs. - Chatbots And Virtual Assistants
Trained chatbots and virtual assistants are being deployed to assist students with course-related queries and provide instant feedback on assignments. This is a great feature that enables the learner to get real-time assistance. - Adaptive Assessment
AI-powered adaptive testing algorithms can adjust the difficulty level of tests based on the performance of a learner. - Content Curation And Generation
AI can be used to create new course content, automate assessment generation, and thus save time in routine work for the Subject Matter Experts.
Future Trends
The true power of AI in eLearning is yet to be unleashed. Here are a few areas that have immense potential for growth using AI.
- Virtual Reality (VR) And Augmented Reality (AR)
Although VR and AR technology has been around for a while, the utilization of AI can take it to the next level of usability and give an excellent User Experience. - Predictive Analytics
AI can be used to predict student performance, allowing trainers to identify learners who need more attention and fill the learning gap. - Gamification
AI will definitely enhance the User Experience when comes to the gamification of learning.
Advantages Of Using AI In eLearning
There are many substantial benefits that AI can provide in the eLearning industry.
- Personalized Learning
AI can provide learners with a personalized learning experience tailored to their specific needs, thereby improving their engagement, motivation, and retention. - Improved Learning Outcomes
AI-powered eLearning can help learners to learn more effectively, resulting in improved student outcomes. - Increased Efficiency
AI can automate various tasks, freeing up Learning and Development (L&D) managers’ time, and allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. - Data-Driven Insights
AI algorithms can analyze large amounts of learner data, providing L&D managers with actionable insights into their performance.
Disadvantages of Using AI In eLearning:
AI also has some disadvantages:
- Implementing AI in eLearning can be expensive, making it inaccessible to some institutions and students.
With the increasing use of AI in eLearning, there are privacy concerns around the storage and use of personal data. - AI algorithms can be biased, leading to unequal outcomes for certain groups of students.
Conclusion
As AI continues to evolve, it will be important for L&D managers to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of using AI in eLearning and ensure that it is used in a responsible and ethical manner.