HKUST Pioneers AI Teaching with Introduction of AI Lecturers

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has taken a groundbreaking step in educational innovation by introducing the first-ever team of AI lecturers in Asia. This initiative has been developed to broaden the horizons of teaching and learning across campuses in Hong Kong and Guangzhou.

Meet the AI Teaching Team

Comprising ten AI-created digital instructors with diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, these AI lecturers have joined HKUST to engage and motivate students in different academic subjects. Professor Pan Hui, who leads the development of these AI lecturers, aims to tailor the learning experience to individual student needs, potentially transforming the education landscape.

Technologies behind the AI Educators

The development of these AI characters has been powered by various advanced tools including a variational 3D full-body generator, which provides realistic body movements and facial expressions, and AI imaging and chatting technologies to create relatable and effective teaching assistants.

Revolutionizing Classroom Learning

These virtual instructors are currently teaching 'Social Media for Creatives', a cross-campus course offered at HKUST and HKUST(GZ). They cover a range of topics like social media storytelling, gamification, and NFTs. HKUST also plans to add interactive capabilities allowing AI lecturers to respond and interact more deeply with students.

AI's Role in Education Innovation

Emphasizing the educational potential of AI, Prof. Hui envisions these AI teachers as catalysts for creativity and personalized learning. They are designed to complement human instructors, enabling a more engaging learning environment.

Next-Generation Learning Support

With successful integration of AI lecturers, HKUST continues to invest in AI for educational purposes, including a dedicated fund to encourage AI applications in teaching, and introducing an 'AI Ambassador' to support students on campus.

HKUST, AI, Innovation