Tampa Bay Area Students Learn AI with Virtual Dogs Baxter and Bruce

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an integral part of education, and Bay Area students are experiencing this shift in an engaging and approachable way. Scholar Education, a local EdTech start-up, is using two virtual Bernedoodles, Baxter and Bruce, to introduce AI concepts to students. These lovable avatars are designed to make AI less intimidating and more accessible to young learners.

Engaging Students with AI-Powered Learning

The idea behind using Baxter and Bruce as AI avatars is to create a familiar and comforting presence for students while they explore the capabilities of AI. "We wanted to take away the scariness of AI, so we thought using the dogs as the avatar," explains Marlee Strawn, a former teacher and co-founder of Scholar Education. The avatars, modeled after real-life Bernedoodles, are integrated into the lesson plans, allowing them to assist with classroom learning and homework.

Enhancing the Educational Experience

Students interact with Baxter and Bruce by asking questions related to the day’s lessons. The avatars are equipped with all the necessary background information and can respond to queries, ensuring that learning is continuous and consistent. Additionally, the doggie avatar accompanies students home on their laptops, providing support with homework. This AI-driven approach is being tested in third through twelfth grades at Pepin Academies in Tampa, following a successful pilot at Dayspring Academy in Pasco County.

Supporting Teachers and Students Alike

Educators like David Bern, a math teacher at Pepin Academy, see the potential in integrating AI into the classroom. "In the real world, they're going to have access to cell phones and AI now," Bern states. "We have to teach them the right time and wrong time to use it and how to use it correctly." The virtual dogs not only keep students engaged but also help them stay focused on the lesson by gently redirecting off-topic questions back to the subject matter.

Personalized Learning for Diverse Needs

Baxter and Bruce are also designed to assist students who are learning English. With the ability to communicate in 174 different languages, these AI avatars are bridging language barriers and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to benefit from the technology. "They love how he's very animated. He has his dog personality, but he always keeps them on track," Strawn adds, highlighting the importance of making learning enjoyable.

AI in Education: A Friendly Introduction

By introducing AI through the charming avatars of Baxter and Bruce, Scholar Education is not only making AI more approachable but also demonstrating how this technology can enhance the educational experience. As AI continues to be integrated into the classroom, these virtual dogs are leading the way, proving that AI can be both smart and loveable.