Enhancing Educational Support with GenAI: How Lyceo is Integrating AI into its Learning Framework

18

October

2024

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The ongoing teacher shortage in the Netherlands is a growing concern, creating disruptions that impact the quality of education and limiting students’ future opportunities. With some classes and even entire school days being canceled, and certain subjects no longer taught, education has taken a hit. As a response, many parents have turned to private tutoring or homework assistance for their children, while schools increasingly seek external educational services. Among these, Lyceo has emerged as the largest provider.

As more and more schools rely on Lyceo, the company is able to leverage AI technology to address various educational challenges and automate tasks. With the introduction of the Lyceo GenAI learning tool, the company’s virtual tutors will be able to support students by answering questions and providing timely feedback on assignments. The tool will offer personalized insights, highlighting students’ strengths and identifying areas where they can improve. By considering diverse learning preferences and abilities, Lyceo can create tailored teaching strategies and resources for each student. This technology not only provides real-time explanations but also extends continuous support, even during late-night study sessions. This self-paced approach is particularly beneficial for those students who prefer to study according to their own schedules.

Additionally, Lyceo’s GenAI-powered chatbots will enhance customer service by assisting parents in obtaining answers immediately. The chatbots are designed to provide information and perform tasks. The informative chatbots will deliver pre-set information to help parents with questions about pricing or suitable programs tailored to a student’s needs. In contrast, task-based chatbots are programmed to handle specific requests, such as scheduling tutoring sessions for students.

However, integrating GenAI into Lyceo’s business model involves considerable investment. The costs for implementing generative AI can range from minimal to several million euros, depending on the specific use case and scale. While smaller companies may benefit from free versions of generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, Lyceo will likely need to invest in customized AI services to develop the online learning tool and sophisticated chatbots tailored to their needs.

The potential benefits make this investment worthwhile, enabling Lyceo to improve its educational support services and continue to meet the evolving demands of schools, students and parents.

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Explore HeyGen’s video magic!

22

October

2023

5/5 (1)

Having previously faced challenges in producing professional videos, the introduction of a new AI tool named HeyGen appears to be a promising solution. HeyGen is an advanced AI video generation platform designed to simplify the creation of professional videos. The tool uses AI-driven avatars that stimulate creativity by eliminating the expensive constraints associated with traditional video filming and editing. By employing advanced generative AI technology, it enables users to convert textual content into engaging video material. HeyGen also offers an API to integrate a user’s project with other tools.

A user can utilize the tool to create several types of video contents, such as demos and tutorials, without the need for a specialized software. The tool offers different plans, including a free plan that allows a user to create a video of 1 minute maximum. 

I explored the many features of HeyGen and here is my evaluation:

My initial impression is that the tool has a user-friendly interface.

The tool gives the user the option to start creating videos with a very diverse range of templates and avatars. There is also the option to animate your photo with text.

The tool also offers different languages and even different tones that a user can utilize.

The platform is equipped with a convenient drag-and-drop functionality that allows users to seamlessly incorporate diverse elements such as background music and personalized avatars into their projects.

My overall impression, is that a user does not have to have technical expertise to use  HeyGen. It is very beginner-friendly. The tool offers guidance as well.

At present, HeyGen does not provide the option for multiple avatars within a single scene, suggesting room for enhancement in this aspect. Additionally, the introduction of a student plan could be a valuable addition, especially considering that the most affordable plan currently starts at $24.

Source:

HeyGen. (n.d.). Explainer video maker: Create Explainer Videos Online.  https://www.heygen.com/explainer-video-maker

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Simplify your research with Humata AI

21

October

2023

No ratings yet.

Approximately two years ago, I dedicated considerable effort to my undergraduate thesis, diligently reviewing around 10 articles daily. During this period, AI tools were not as accessible as they are today. Consequently, I did not actively pursue an AI solution to enhance my efficiency. Recently, however, I encountered Humata, which offers a potential solution for this problem. 

Humata AI, an AI assistant tool, leverages Large Language Model (LLM), to facilitate users to pose inquiries regarding their documents and receive relevant information. Humata uses AI to create two values for their users: automation and better decisions. It essentially functions as a ChatGPT for PDF files, but is tailored for the analysis and comprehension of lengthy papers and various document types. It enables users to grasp data more rapidly and swiftly navigate through a PDF document (Humata, n.d.).

I decided to experiment with this tool, and here is my assessment:

Upon logging in, you have the option to upload your file directly. The file I uploaded had a size of 1129 KB, and it took me under a minute to initiate my inquiries.

Prior to posing questions, Humata will provide you with a concise overview of the article. Additionally, it will offer a selection of sample questions.

The tool not only provides you with a response but also emphasizes the paragraphs containing the answer, specifies the page(s) where the answer is located, and includes citations to enable users to trace the source of the information.

Overall, I discovered the tool to be highly beneficial. It could enhance research in innovative ways. I would recommend it to briefly skim PDF files during your studies. Nevertheless, there was some ambiguity as a significant portion of the PDF file was highlighted when I posed my question.

However, these AI tools that enhance academic research come with risks. One of them is the risk of overly relying on technology, impeding our capacity for critical thinking and problem-solving. (Esplugas, 2023). It can also provide an unfair advantage to the more privileged members of society due to its costs (Esplugas, 2023).

Humata offers four different subscription plans, including a free plan that permits users to upload up to 60 pages and pose a total of 10 questions. There is also a student plan available for $1.99, allowing students to upload up to 200 pages and access basic chat support (Humata, n.d.).

Sources:

Humata. (n.d.). https://www.humata.ai/ 

Esplugas, M. (2023). The use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance academic communication, education and research: a balanced approach. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume), 48(8), 819-822.

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