Adaptive Learning: The Smart Path to Positive Results

Long-standing problems are finding innovative solutions, as technology continues to amplify its role in our lifestyles, commerce, and education. Standardized teaching structure is one of those problems … because students don’t come in standardized models.

Educational institutions have traditionally grouped students by age rather than capabilities; and grading protocols that are heavily weighted toward final exam results may not accurately assess those capabilities. In short, many students have been left behind because their learning style didn’t align with the course delivery.

We are now trending toward a broader academic environment: integrating informal and formal practices, facilitating experiential learning, expanding the criteria for assessment. An environment where students can master course concepts and advance to the next level at their own pace.

In an ideal world, teachers would examine each student’s abilities and adapt their tactics; unfortunately, there are not enough hours in the day for universal private mentorship.

But current technology has transformed the ideal into reality. Adaptive learning systems provide the data to personalize courses that scale to each student’s needs: data that is based on performance, preferences, and predictive analyses. Machine learning merges with instructor-led training to create a uniquely designed experience.

Adaptive learning uses data-driven methods to appraise and present the most effective content delivery. Instructors in virtual classrooms can keep their students on track. Real-time analytics keep them updated on individual progress, so that they can fill any gaps. And a deeper dive into varying levels of skills, knowledge, and behaviours can inform astute decisions on grouping participants for collaborative activities.

Students are better motivated by the right content at the right time in their online courses. Freed from the constraints of an inflexible time frame, they are not bored by studying material that they already know, nor are they daunted by rushing through subject matter that they have not fully absorbed before moving on.

Transcending basic digital experiences, holistic adaptive learning systems involve real-time customization to each student’s level of engagement, specific objectives, and skill sets. They respond to the students’ activity, adapting content to their level of achievement.

The algorithms shape a learning path that promotes student success and helps the instructor gauge and address any problems. Advanced artificial intelligence delivers instant feedback on critical data points, serving as a foundation for tailoring the information and preparing for the next phase.

This approach promotes efficiencies in learning, pinpointing the content requiring the sharpest focus and offering links to additional resources. Reports allow both student and teacher to track progress and make adjustments.

McGraw Hill has developed a user-friendly and AODA-compliant adaptive learning solution through its Connect platform. SmartBook enables the educator to select the right content and build on each student’s knowledge base.

These digital platforms can work in tandem with other online tools; for example, by using discussion boards, Q&A sessions, or quizzes to evaluate the knowledge gained through the adaptive learning components.

It is important that instructors connect one-on-one with their students by answering questions, providing guidance, and encouraging engagement. A consistent presence also gives insights into their habits, which helps to refine the experience.

The constructive synergy between teacher and student ensures that knowledge is being communicated and comprehended. Rather than passive auditors of classroom lectures, the learners become dynamic partners in the academic process, as they measure their performance, hone their skills, and monitor their progress.

Adaptive learning is an exciting and powerful way to inspire students to attain their full potential, build confidence in their own abilities, and understand that their instructor knows who they are and cares about their success. Artificial intelligence complements educators’ expertise to achieve positive outcomes: it is truly a productive partnership.