Shiren Vijiasingam, Chief Product Officer at Instructure, discusses AI, partner programs, and education evolution. Topics include enhancing education through AI, integrating technologies in the learning experience, purpose-driven niche models in education, demonstrating skills and using verifiable credentials in EdTech, and deconstructing proxies for learning and credentialing.
Generative AI is seen as a valuable tool for creating authentic assessments and engaging learning experiences in education.
Instructure focuses on integrating various tools and technologies seamlessly to enhance the learning experience and empower educators and learners.
The move towards skill demonstration and credentialing highlights the importance of aggregating skills from diverse pathways to showcase learners' abilities, and Instructure's learning passport aims to support this trend.
Deep dives
Focus on the Future of AI in Education
One of the most exciting trends in EdTech is the emergence of generative AI and its potential to positively impact education. The democratization of AI models and the reduction of cost and entry are shaping the future of AI. Educators see generative AI as a valuable tool for creating authentic assessments and engaging learning experiences. The trend towards skill demonstration is also gaining momentum, with a focus on stackable credentials and the aggregation of skills acquired from diverse academic and non-academic pathways. Instructure is actively embracing this trend through its learning passport, combining portfolios, badging, and learner records. The goal is to empower learners to access opportunities and create personalized learning journeys. As generative AI continues to evolve, it is crucial to prioritize educators' and learners' needs and ensure equitable access to these emerging technologies.
The Power of Ecosystem Integration
Instructure is committed to creating a cohesive platform by integrating various tools and technologies seamlessly. The partnership with Khan Academy and the emerging app marketplace showcase the drive to provide educators and learners with a wide range of innovative tools. The focus is on solving core teaching and learning needs and enhancing the learning experience. The integration of AI-powered tools, such as the ConMigo Tutor and the AI app store, offers personalized learning experiences, feedback, and support. Ecosystem integration helps reduce time spent navigating between tools and enables educators to focus on high-value teaching and learning. Instructure's goal is to empower educators and learners by leveraging technology and innovation to create a more efficient and effective learning environment.
The Trend Towards Skill Demonstration and Credentialing
An exciting and durable trend in EdTech is the move towards skill demonstration and credentialing. This trend emphasizes the importance of aggregating skills acquired from diverse academic and non-academic pathways to showcase a learner's abilities. Stackable credentials, badges, and portfolios are becoming increasingly popular as educators and employers seek ways to understand and verify learners' skills. Instructure recognizes the value of this trend and is investing in the development of the learning passport, a comprehensive tool that combines portfolios, badging, and learner records. The focus is on creating pathways for learners, providing flexibility, and enabling lifelong learning journeys. The goal is to empower every learner to achieve their full potential and access new opportunities.
The Evolution and Potential of Generative AI
Generative AI is an emerging technology that holds great potential for education. The democratization of AI models is driving specialization and reducing the cost of entry. The versatility of generative AI allows for a wide range of applications, from creating personalized learning experiences to formative feedback and assistance in areas like prompt writing. As the field continues to evolve rapidly, it is essential to keep educators and learners at the center and solve their core needs. Instructure is committed to staying at the forefront of generative AI and embracing emerging technologies to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. The focus is on ensuring equitable access to innovative tools and driving the future of education.
Resource Recommendations for Deepening Understanding
For those interested in diving deeper into AI trends and developments in education, two recommended resources are Dr. Jordan Nguyen's website (drjordannguyen.com) and Instructure's AI resources page (instructure.com/ai). Dr. Jordan Nguyen is a respected thought leader in innovation and education, and his website offers valuable insights and inspiration. Instructure's AI resources provide a comprehensive overview of AI's potential in education and how Instructure is leveraging AI technologies to empower educators and learners. These resources serve as valuable references for anyone looking to explore the intersection of AI and education.
Shiren Vijiasingamis the Chief Product Officer at Instructure, the leading learning platform and maker of Canvas. Shiren has built global software products for millions of users, for over 2 decades, with more than half of his time in education. He previously served as Chief Product Officer, both at Newsela, a K-12 content platform, and before that at General Assembly, the pioneer of career transformation education. He has a master’s degree in interactive media from Quinnipiac University and a bachelor’s degree in communications from St. Cloud State University.
