Neil Heffernan

Computer Science

Professor

AFFILIATED DEPARTMENT OR OFFICE

Computer Science

Learning Sciences & Technology

EDUCATION

BA Amherst College 1993

MS Carnegie Mellon University 1998

PhD Carnegie Mellon University 2001

Expert Bio

Professor Heffernan researches how smarter technologies can help K-12 classrooms use technology more effectively and optimize student learning. His platform (ASSISTments) can run 100 different experiments comparing different interventions; I’m interested in going beyond what people call “intelligent tutoring systems.” He says "Ultimately, I hope to play a role in closing achievement gaps." He uses a middle school math platform with 100,000 students to study how to improve students learning of mathematics.

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EdTech Digest

U.S. Dept. of Education Releases ‘Designing for Edu with AI’ Developer Guide

EdTech Digest reported on federal efforts to support developers of educational technology and provide essential information regarding artificial intelligence. The article credits Neil Heffernan, the William Smith Dean's Professor of Computer Science and the director of the Learning Sciences and Technologies Program, with contributing ideas for translating Department of Education recommendations for AI in education into practical guidelines.

Worcester Business Journal

WPI researchers to develop AI math tutor with $4M in funding

Neil Heffernan, the William Smith Dean's Professor of Computer Science and the director of the Learning Sciences and Technologies Program, has been awarded a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s (DOE) Institute of Education Sciences to lead efforts to develop an artificial intelligence tutor to help middle-school students learn math while doing homework.

Neil Heffernan

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