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Effective Blended Learning : Role of Blended Intelligence

 

The pandemic has impacted learning the most since the advent of internet and its influence on the way we learn. we have been experimenting with "digital learning" for some time time now. However, we are yet to reach a stage where digital learning or as it is more commonly understood in the current context, digital blended learning has reached a level of efficiency that is as comparable with Face-to-face learning.

So, the question that I have been asking myself as an educator - how do we improve the efficiency or the effectiveness of the digital blended learning?

A parallel field of technology development has been the rise of application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). Can we use this tool to enhance the learning experience in the new normal?


As we dive deep into the field of AI/ML, we realize that data (stated or unstated) is what the computer programs use to 'predict' or 'recommend' something across a wide range of consumer applications. Now, is that what we can use for consumers of education services? A few experiments are happening across the globe that is trying to understand how different learning styles across various layers of "thinking skills" can impact the efficiency of learning. 

A core realization that I have is - artificial intelligence is a tool which is effective only when it is used to complement Human Intelligence and hence,

Blended Intelligence (BI) = Artificial Intelligence (AI) + Human Intelligence (HI)

The human intelligence that comes from expert trainers must be retained in the learning process to complement the data science led recommendation done through artificial intelligence. The softer elements of learning - emotional impact on the learner, impact of tone and pitch with which a 'concept' or 'learning module' is delivered and so on. There are distinct patterns that each individual demonstrates in their learning journey and the role of the machine is to identify the core learning methods and align them to the specific learner. At the same time, the trainer can bring in the critical inputs to ensure that the methods chosen are in sync with mood, context, etc.

Learning effectiveness is a fascinating domain to deploy AI/ML. If we use learning from other consumer domains and map their applicability to ensure an elegant technology solution with humane approach to learning, we may be able to truly create a Education 4.0 to meet the demands of Industry 4.0. Unless we achieve this, mismatch between the needs of the education and workplace ecosystems will only widen.

I would love to hear any experiments that you may have undertaken in a related area. Kindly critique, raise questions or simply share your point of view in the comments section.    

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