AI as Learning Companion: Early EdTech Innovation
Led design strategy for a groundbreaking collaboration between two major education and technology companies, creating one of the first AI-powered adaptive learning experiences in higher education.
This interactive concept map helped students visualize their learning journey while providing contextual AI support. The conversational UI in the chat bubble demonstrates how we made complex topics more approachable through natural dialogue.
Client
IBM Watson and Pearson Education
My role
Design Lead responsible for: Designing AI-human interactions for educational contexts Creating personalized learning pathways Developing conversational UI for student engagement Collaborating across organizations to integrate AI capabilities
Key Challenges Overcome
Humanizing AI Interactions in Education
Creating supportive, non-judgmental AI responses
Balancing academic authority with approachability
Designing interactions that wouldn't frustrate struggling students
Complex System Integration
Bridging two major platforms while maintaining seamless UX
Integrating Watson's capabilities with existing educational content
Creating consistent interaction patterns across different types of content
Pioneering Territory
No existing patterns for AI-driven educational interfaces
Establishing new paradigms for adaptive learning experiences
Balancing innovation with usability
Impact
Created one of the first AI-powered adaptive learning experiences in higher education
Developed innovative "mastery mapping" visualization for student progress
Pioneered conversational UI patterns for educational AI
Established framework for personalized learning pathways
Demonstrated early proof of concept for AI as an educational companion
We designed a clean, focused interface for accessing study materials. The minimalist sidebar and clear hierarchy helped reduce cognitive load, allowing students to concentrate on learning rather than navigating the platform.
Key Takeaways
Early Innovation in AI Education
Demonstrated potential of AI as a learning companion
Established patterns still relevant in today's EdTech landscape
Human-Centered AI Design
Created supportive, encouraging AI interactions
Focused on student experience and emotional needs
Developed adaptive responses to different learning styles
Cross-Organization Collaboration
Successfully bridged technical and educational requirements
Created unified experience across different platforms