MBZUAI has implemented three HyFlex (hybrid flexible) classrooms using Zoom to connect remote and in-person students. The classrooms include smart whiteboards, sensor cameras, and multiple screens, benchmarked against setups at Harvard and King's College. A research article on the development of MBZUAI's HyFlex approach is under peer review. Why it matters: This initiative enhances hybrid learning in the region and provides a model for other universities looking to integrate advanced technology into their educational spaces.
MBZUAI appointed Ekaterina Kochmar as an assistant professor of NLP to advance AI-assisted learning. Kochmar co-founded Korbit AI, an AI-powered dialogue-based tutoring system for STEM subjects. Korbit AI aims to democratize education by providing personalized, high-quality education globally at minimal cost. Why it matters: This appointment highlights MBZUAI's commitment to AI in education and personalized learning, positioning the UAE as a hub for innovation in educational technology.
Ted Briscoe from the University of Cambridge discussed using machine learning and NLP to develop learning-oriented assessment (LOA) for non-native writers. The technology is used in Cambridge English courseware like Empower and Linguaskill, as well as Write and Improve. Briscoe is also the co-founder and CEO of iLexIR Ltd. Why it matters: Improving automated language assessment could significantly enhance online language learning platforms in the Arab world and beyond.
KAUST is developing AI-driven personalized learning and testing platforms to address STEM education resource gaps in Saudi Arabia. The project involves building an intelligent tutoring system in collaboration with Saudi high schools, the Ministry of Education, and SDAIA. The AI tutor, designed in a Socratic style, enhances learning through GenAI tutoring, including in Arabic, and supports teachers by generating test and homework problems. Why it matters: This initiative aims to prepare Saudi youth for future workforce demands and enhance educational outcomes, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for human capital development.
Ekaterina Kochmar from the University of Bath presented the Korbit Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS), an AI-powered dialogue-based platform providing personalized learning experiences. A comparative study showed that students using Korbit achieved 2-2.5 times higher learning gains and higher completion rates compared to a traditional MOOC platform. Kochmar is also a co-founder and CSO of Korbit AI. Why it matters: The research highlights the potential of AI to deliver personalized education and significantly improve learning outcomes in online STEM education, an area of focus for many GCC universities.
This paper introduces a hybrid deep learning and machine learning pipeline for classifying construction and demolition waste. A dataset of 1,800 images from UAE construction sites was created, and deep features were extracted using a pre-trained Xception network. The combination of Xception features with machine learning classifiers achieved up to 99.5% accuracy, demonstrating state-of-the-art performance for debris identification.