Over the past few decades, the synergy of education and technology has become something to behold. The technology sector is continually developing new tools to revolutionize the way students learn. Students at three California schools have been fortunate enough to leverage one of the field’s latest developments, edYOU Technologies, to boost test scores.
edYOU got its start as a study and test prep site. However, one of its features sets it apart: Instead of simply reading text on a screen or listening to a disembodied voice, students can interact and converse with a photo-realistic AI tutor. These are human-like Conversational AI Beings (CABs) that can directly converse with each student while tailoring personalized study help.
“Imagine having a 24/7 study buddy during your college or undergraduate years, or even back in high school,” explains Dr. Michael Everest, founder of edYOU. “Now you can have just that!”
“Whether it’s studying late at night in your pajamas or seeking lessons and assistance from a real-life person, your AI tutor is always there to help and engage with you. This level of personalized and constant support is truly unique and adds a new dimension to the educational experience.”
edYOU has incorporated Conversational AI Beings from the very beginning and has continued to evolve significantly. They don’t just look more lifelike now; they’re also better equipped to assist students of all ages and abilities. edYOU has just launched two new modes of study: Infinite Test Prep (ITP) and Infinite Course Prep (ICP).
The “infinite” in the names is meant literally. When a student uses Infinite Test Prep, their AI tutor can develop an unlimited number of customized practice test questions, no matter the subject material or difficulty level. Infinite Course Prep is even more advanced. This tool will adapt to your performance on InfiniteTest Prep and create a tailored course for the areas and topics you may need additional help with.
For instance, if a student wants to prepare for the SAT, they could ask their AI tutor to create a fully personalized ITP for either the entire SAT or a small focus area they want to study. A supporting ICP would be generated based on the student’s recommended areas of improvement. Each student’s AI tutor is available at all times if they have any questions or need concepts explained in simpler ways.
Dr. Everest believes the platform shows great promise as a teaching tool. Currently, students across three California schools — Rondo School of Discovery, Sierra Canyon School, and Calabasas High School — are using edYOU as part of their curricula..
While it’s still early in the process, students are already showing better engagement and learning retention. IRB studies have shown that usage of edYOU increased test results by as much as 15%.
Some teachers and parents understandably have concerns. In recent years, AI has played a role in eliminating jobs in certain sectors, and it might seem as if Dr. Everest intends for edYOU to take the place of teachers.
That couldn’t be further from the truth. “I firmly believe that our platform, as reflected in one of our slogans, is designed to help humans do more without taking away jobs from teachers,” says Everest. “Instead, we aim to make information accessible in a safe space, contributing to the wellness of teachers and tutors.”
Dr. Everest believes that teachers who implement edYOU will see improved learning outcomes while also lightening their workloads.
“Our platform provides an even keel of support, available 24/7, which enables teachers to enhance their effectiveness while also prioritizing their well-being,” he explains. “With limited hours in a day for both teachers and students, having access to a reliable platform like ours can optimize engagement and learning experiences.”
Time will tell if edYOU will prove a boon for the teachers and students at Corona Norco’s Rondo School of Discovery and Calabasas High School. However, if the students’ experience thus far is any indication, edYOU may soon be available for use in classrooms around the country. edYOU is already advancing to a school district in Colorado.
The future remains undetermined, but Dr. Everest remains focused on one critical goal: improving the technology.
“Our vision for the future includes adding gamification elements to the platform,” he says. “This means students can compete against each other, earning points as they progress through their studies. Gamification is a crucial aspect, as it enhances engagement and motivation. Just like in a classroom setting, students can compete with their peers, but now it extends across various distant places.”
It’s an exciting time for technology in education. edYOU’s use of AI tutors offers a unique approach, and so far, Infinite Test Prep and Infinite Course Prep are helping to improve learning outcomes. With game-style learning and other engaging improvements on the horizon, the future of education is sure to be fascinating.