Adaptive learning is education software that is customized to each student individually.

AI-powered algorithms can analyze learner data and provide personalized learning recommendations, adapting the learning experience to meet individual needs and preferences. This can be done to the level that a particular student finds easiest to understand and can be completed in a self-set pace.

Adaptive learning platforms use data analysis to understand individual student strengths and weaknesses in a subject. This information is then used to provide personalized feedback and instruction that is tailored to the student's needs, such as asking more questions about a topic where the student is struggling.

By collecting and analyzing data on learners' progress, interests, and learning styles, AI algorithms can tailor content, pacing, and assessments with the aim of improved engagement and better outcomes.

Currently, adaptive learning models work better with a larger set of students that are working through the same course material, allowing a greater amount of comparable data to be collected at the same time. The measured progression can then inform AI to break down a textbook into a digestible study guide, with chapter summaries, practice tests, and flashcards, for example.

Intelligent tutoring systems are AI-powered solutions tailored to match each individual student’s needs and abilities.

Acting as a virtual tutor, this AI-driven system can provide real-time feedback, guidance, and support to learners. These systems leverage natural language processing and machine learning techniques to understand learners' queries, offer explanations, and help them overcome challenges.

Essentially, it mirrors a human coach in its ability to provide feedback, rephrase questions, and give detailed assessments of a student’s progress.

Intelligent tutoring systems create a personalized learning environment that mimics the benefits of one-on-one instruction. Implementing a system like this can cut costs dramatically while boosting the success rate at the same time.

These systems, at their best, don’t replace teachers but rather shift teachers closer to the role of mentor.

Taking the place of virtual facilitators, AI-powered grading systems streamline the assessment process by automating the grading of objective questions and providing immediate feedback to learners. This frees up educators' time, allowing them to focus on more meaningful aspects of teaching, such as providing qualitative feedback and interacting with students.

Virtual teaching assistants have been developed that can engage on a classroom’s online discussion forum by answering student questions alongside other human teaching assistants.

Further advancements in this space include programmed prototypes in virtual counselling, merging live classrooms with intelligent tutors, augmented reality, and virtual instructors.

AI algorithms equipped with natural language processing (NLP) capabilities can analyze text-based content, discussion forums, and even essays to identify patterns, assess sentiment, and extract valuable insights.

This technology enables educators to gain a deeper understanding of learners' needs and concerns and develop targeted interventions accordingly.

One of the most exciting areas for potential is the way in which AI accelerates eLearning courseware creation. AI authoring tools can greatly speed up the content creation process. It uses a programming technique known as language modelling, a training algorithm that teaches machines to write like human beings.

From NLP algorithms generating written content including lesson plans, summaries, quizzes, and assessments, to video editing and transcription, graphic design and language translation. This can be done with popular programs and platforms equipped with AI capabilities, such as ChatGPT, Articoolo, Otter.ai, Adobe Spark and Adobe Premiere Pro, and even Canva.

Authoring eLearning courses can take weeks, which is far from ideal in a world where new discoveries and updates are constantly being made and need to be taught.

In today’s highly evolved times, teaching and learning online can be easier than ever – for those who embrace it.

Reports indicate that teachers spend more than 50% of their time on paperwork, grading tests, assigning homework, preparing progress reports, and organising course materials and resources for classes. That’s time that could be better spent on student development and nurturing.

However, an annual O’Rielly survey revealed that education was one of two sectors with the fewest respondents (9%) reporting that they currently had AI projects in production. Although 46% of respondents in the education sector reported that they were evaluating the use of AI, it was also the largest percentage of respondents saying they weren’t using AI at all.

There are hundreds to thousands of software solutions that help educators, instructional designers, and course creators customize learning and optimize courses. These tools can be used to adapt lessons to students’ needs, continually providing an ideal learning environment, enhancing communication, and optimizing the lesson creation process.

To leverage the potential of AI in the online learning industry, eLearning businesses can take the following steps:

Collect and analyze learner data to gain insights into their behavior, preferences, and learning patterns. This information can be used to develop personalized learning experiences and interventions proactively.

History has shown that it’s the companies that best adapt their business models that stand the test of time. AI provides incredible opportunity and immense potential to drive innovation and transformation in the education industry, and it’s up to us to explore these options to always become better.

From personalized learning experiences to adaptive learning and virtual reality, educators are being empowered to embrace innovative approaches to teaching and learning, or fall behind.

As eLearning businesses adapt to this new age of AI, you can harness its potential by embracing data analytics, partnering with AI solution providers, investing in teacher training, and fostering collaboration.

At The Really Great Teacher Company we thrive on innovation and have adopted AI tools extensively in various aspects throughout our business. By embracing the possibilities of AI in education, online learning businesses can unlock new horizons of learning and shape the future of education.

Remember, the integration of AI into online education is an ongoing journey, and staying updated with the latest AI advancements will be crucial to staying ahead in the industry. Embrace AI as a partner, and together, let's transform the education industry for the better!