UT Tyler Introduces AI Teaching Assistant to Support Learning This Fall
UT Tyler is rolling out an AI teaching assistant this fall, aiming to provide targeted support to both students and faculty. The new tool is built to streamline how class material is accessed and understood, offering a practical aid in the learning process.
The project is led by Dr. Sagnik Dakshit, assistant professor of computer science, alongside Dr. Kouider Mokhtari from the School of Education. Their collaborative effort focuses on creating an interactive AI system tailored specifically to each course.
How the AI Teaching Assistant Works
Faculty members can log into the system and upload their course materials. From these uploads, the AI generates a customized conversational assistant for that class. In essence, it functions similarly to ChatGPT but operates solely using content provided by the professor.
Students access this AI tool to ask questions related only to the uploaded materials. This approach limits misinformation by restricting answers to verified class content, unlike general AI or internet searches that might provide inaccurate or irrelevant information.
Addressing Common Challenges with AI in Education
Dr. Dakshit highlights a common issue with general AI tools: they can sometimes offer incorrect information, which is problematic for undergraduate students who may not yet have the skills to evaluate source credibility. This AI teaching assistant addresses that by filtering responses through professor-approved content.
Additionally, the system keeps student identities confidential while monitoring interactions. Over time, it can detect changes in students' emotional engagement and academic performance. For example, if a student shows declining interest or grades, faculty can be alerted to provide timely support.
Future Plans and Implementation
The AI assistant will update in real time as professors adjust their lesson materials, ensuring students always receive the most current information. Initial testing will focus on more challenging courses, with plans to expand campus-wide by the spring semester.
Additional Resources
Related Articles
- UT Tyler secures $1.5 million grant to enhance youth mental health services in East Texas
- Wellness Wednesday: Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
- UT Tyler team receives $174,000 grant to help AI understand EKG readings
Your membership also unlocks:
