EDTECH RESEARCH PROJECTS
Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a pedagogical method that combines theory and practice by involving students in real-world challenges. Continuous feedback is crucial in PBL, guiding students to improve their methods and foster progressive thinking. However, PBL faces challenges in widespread adoption due to the time and expertise needed for effective feedback, especially with increasing student numbers. This work presents a novel approach using Generative AI, specifically an enhanced ChatGPT, to provide effective PBL feedback. For an undergraduate Web Technology course, we integrated three strategies: 1) fine-tuning ChatGPT with feedback from various sources; 2) using additional course-specific information for context; 3) incorporating external services for specialized feedback. We developed a tool that implements these strategies both independently and in a combined fashion. We assessed the effectiveness of the tool we developed by conducting user studies, which confirmed that this tool improves the quality of feedback as compared with general-purpose ChatGPT. By acquiring and retaining knowledge from different sources, our approach offers a powerful component for implementing PBL on a large scale.
EDUCATIONAL AND LEARNING PLATFORMS
E-Pustakalaya is a free education-focused digital library containing full-text documents, images, videos and audio files that can be accessed through an intranet or the internet. E-Pustakalaya users can read books, view videos, learn through interactive activities and listen to audio clips. E-Pustakalaya holds collections in Nepali, English and other languages of Nepal.
E-Paath is a free learning platform created by OLE Nepal with over 400 interactive learning modules that are designed to align with Nepal's national curriculum. Catering to specific subjects and grade levels from 1 to 8, E-Paath modules are available in Nepali and English languages, and adaptable to any. E-Paath also offers instruction in Nepali Sign Language (NSL) for grades 1 to 6. E-Paath is accessible through any web browser, on mobile and tablets, and can be utilized online via OLE Nepal's digital library, E-Pustakalaya.
Hamro Ramailo Kathaharu (HRK) is a collection of animated local stories and language games designed to develop emergent literacy skills and reading habit, and foster creativity and imagination in young learners. Currently available in Nepali but adaptable to any language, HRK uses audio-visuals, illustrations, and animations, combined with interactivity, to help young learners to effectively listen to illustrated stories, decode sentences and words, learn vocabularies, form words from letters and sentences from words, as well as learn the alphabet, listen to the sounds, and be guided on how to write the letters.
Math and Science Games are educational games developed and provided by OLE Nepal for grades 6 to 10, aimed at promoting STEM learning beyond the conventional curriculum. These interactive and engaging learning games serve as valuable tools for students to explore and grasp complex concepts while nurturing critical thinking skills. Designed as part of a grant from MIT Abdul Latif Jameel World Education Lab (J-WEL), these games benefit from input from MIT students and faculty with expertise in game-based learning. This is an ongoing project, and we appreciate your feedback on the games.