Since GPT-4's release it has shown novel abilities in a variety of domains. This paper explores the use of LLM-generated explanations as on-demand assistance for problems within the ASSISTments platform. In particular, we are studying whether GPT-generated explanations are better than nothing on problems that have no supports and whether…

A longstanding goal of learner modeling and educational data mining is to improve the domain model of knowledge that is used to make inferences about learning and performance. In this report we present a tool for finding domain models that is built into an existing modeling framework, logistic knowledge tracing (LKT). LKT allows the flexible…

This work proposes Dynamic Linear Epsilon-Greedy, a novel contextual multi-armed bandit algorithm that can adaptively assign personalized content to users while enabling unbiased statistical analysis. Traditional A/B testing and reinforcement learning approaches have trade-offs between empirical investigation and maximal impact on users. Our…

Learning to paraphrase supports both writing ability and reading comprehension, particularly for less skilled learners. As such, educational tools that integrate automated evaluations of paraphrases can be used to provide timely feedback to enhance learner paraphrasing skills more efficiently and effectively. Paraphrase identification is a popular…

In this paper, we consider a minimalistic and behavioristic view of AIS to enable a standardizable mapping of both the behavior of the system and of the learner. In this model, the "learners" interact with the learning "resources" in a given learning "environment" following preset steps of learning…

This paper explores the concept of dynamically generating definitions using a deep-learning model. We do this by creating a dataset that contains definition entries and contexts associated with each definition. We then fine-tune a GPT-2 based model on the dataset to allow the model to generate contextual definitions. We evaluate our model with…

In this paper we show how we can utilize human-guided machine learning techniques coupled with a learning science practitioner interface (DataShop) to identify potential improvements to existing educational technology. Specifically, we provide an interface for the classification of underlying Knowledge Components (KCs) to better model student…

Play is a powerful influence on children's learning and parents can provide opportunities to learn specific content by scaffolding children's play. Parent-child synchrony (i.e., harmony, reciprocity and responsiveness in interactions) is a component of parent-child interactions that is not well characterized in studies of play. We tested whether…

Classroom experiments that evaluate the effectiveness of educational technologies do not typically examine the effects of classroom contextual variables (e.g., out-of-software help-giving and external distractions). Yet these variables may influence students' instructional outcomes. In this paper, we introduce the Spatial Classroom Log Explorer…

Digital media and electronic toys are changing the landscape of childhood. How does this change impact language learning? In this chapter, we explore potential alignment between six established principles of language and children's engagement with digital media and electronic toys. We argue that electronic toys and digital media are not solely…