The reach of artificial intelligence tools continues to grow at a rapid pace, leaving many institutions to ask how they can meaningfully support student learning. That question is at the center of Episode 2 of Higher Ed Dive’s EdTech Evolution podcast series, which features two research scientists from VitalSource.
In this episode, VitalSource research scientists Benny Johnson, PhD, and Rachel Van Campenhout, EdD, join Higher Ed Dive to discuss how AI, when grounded in learning science, can support student engagement and learning outcomes. The conversation connects research-backed strategies with the realities instructors face in today’s classrooms.
A key concept explored in the episode is the Doer Effect, which shows a causal relationship between increased learning and active practice while reading. While practice improves understanding and retention, creating enough high-quality practice questions is time-consuming for instructors. VitalSource's learning science experts explore how thoughtfully designed AI tools, such as Bookshelf CoachMe, can help scale formative practice and provide meaningful feedback based on research the team did in partnership with Cal Poly, Pomona.
Key Takeaway:
AI helps scale what already works. When grounded in learning science, AI can support proven teaching practices without changing how learning happens or increasing faculty workload.
Listen to Episode 2 of Higher Ed Dive’s EdTech Evolution podcast, “Harnessing AI for Learning” below and check out previous episodes here.