How can AI help you improve Mathematics learning and teaching? In this post, we will dive into various use cases of AI for learning math and what are some of the popular AI tools for learning and teaching math. Mathematics can be a overwhelming for some, but with AI's personalization powers, it can become an accessible and fun topic to learn for all. Learners of any age can be better at math with AIs help.
AI is particularly useful to explain math concepts in a novice's terms.
Generative AI based tools can transform learning into an exciting adventure because they offer a powerful personalization technology, unlike the ones that came before. Previous generation of adaptive learning technologies had limited adaptability. The software could not create new personalized content on the fly for the learner. But with Genenrative AI, new unique learning content can be created that is based on the context of what the learner wants to know or understand.
Use Cases of AI Tools for Math Education
AI has many use cases for classrooms. For learning Math, here are 8 different use cases to try:
Explain A Concept or a Problem
If you ever find yourself lost or stuck while doing math, AI will definitely provide you some help by explaining the concept in a simpler way. You can ask AI to explain concepts to you like a child and it will make things easier to understand for you. You can present a tough math equation or proof and ask it to explain the steps to you.
Personalize Problems based on Interests
Using AI, you can turn problems in fun exercises that students can relate to more. You can ask AI to read a problem and convert it into some theme that the student is more interested in e.g. music, sea, cars, fire, outdoors, etc.
Generate Project Ideas
Another use case of AI is to generate project ideas on a topic. When generating ideas, we can ask the AI to keep them related to real world, and follow certain themes of interest. Projects that relate math to real world are likely to excite children to approach math without fear and with more interest.
Create Lesson Plans
AI can generate structured lesson plans for teachers in minutes. If we provide curriculum details, an overview of the classroom context that includes some information about the learners, specific topics we want to cover, and any other details about the format, AI tools like ChatGPT can instantly create a lesson plan for us.
Generate Worked Examples
Generative AI chatbots can quickly generate a number of worked examples for students to go through. Worked examples are a great tool to improve understanding of concepts. They enable us to understand math by applying our newly learned or abstract ideas with concrete steps, making it easier to do similar exercise later.
Create Spaced Practice Plan
Spaced Practice or Interleaved Practice has shown better results with learning various concepts. AI tools can help us create a plan for spaced practice.
Convert Abstract Problems into Word Problems
Using Generative AI tools, we can convert abstract math problems into word problems and also vice versa. Math is often performed in abstract way, and being comfortable with abstract reasoning using math symbols is important. AI can help be better at abstract math by converting it into relatable word problems. When students can deeply see how math symbols can relate to real world objects, they become more comfortable with abstract representations.
Provide Feedback
Last but not least, AI tools can provide feedback on math assignments. Smart Paper technology enables educators to provide individual feedback on handwritten math assignments. AI can analyze student handwriting and provide instant help.
Popular AI Chatbots for Math
The most popular chatbot app ChatGPT is a versatile AI that can help learners with their math. The free version of ChatGPT provides limited capability but solves most of the use cases for early math learning. For more advanced problems, GPT-4 is required which needs a paid subscription of ChatGPT. By using this chatbot, you can cover all of the use cases mentioned in this blog post.
Khanmigo by Khan Academy
This chatbot is still in beta, but is being actively used in many schools in the United States and across the world. Created by Khan Academy, this chatbot helps students with various subjects, and also lets them talk with famous historical figures! This is not a free bot, and costs $4 per month or $44 per year.
CK12 provides free high quality digital learning content. Flexi is their new chatbot to help students learn.
AI Enhanced Math Calculators
AI has also revolutionized the way we solve complex equations. Advanced calculators powered by AI can perform intricate calculations effortlessly, simplifying the process for students and professionals alike.
Here are some noteworthy AI powered calculators for tackling complex equations:
Wolfram Alpha: Dubbed the "computational knowledge engine," Wolfram Alpha employs AI algorithms to provide detailed answers to a wide range of mathematical queries. Whether you need to solve an integral, find the roots of an equation, or explore complex mathematical concepts, this tool has got you covered.
Symbolab: Symbolab is another powerful calculator that uses AI to solve and explain step-by-step solutions for various math problems. It covers topics from algebra and calculus to statistics and trigonometry, making it a comprehensive resource for students at all levels.
Photomath: This app takes advantage of AI technology by allowing users to take a photo of a handwritten or printed math problem and instantly receive a step-by-step solution. It's like having a personal math tutor in your pocket!
Interactive Math Learning Apps with AI power
Interactive apps that incorporate machine learning algorithms have significantly changed digital learning landscape of math education. These AI-powered apps offer gamified experiences that not only educate but also make learning math a delightful and engaging experience.
Imagine delving into equations while embarking on a thrilling quest or exploring mathematical concepts through captivating puzzles. Thanks to AI-powered apps, students can now immerse themselves in a world where numbers come alive, rendering math more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.
Some examples of interactive math learning apps driven by AI include:
Mathletics, an AI-driven app, uses adaptive technology to tailor lessons according to each student's skill level. It offers engaging games and challenges that adapt to individual progress, providing targeted practice for various mathematical concepts.
Designed for younger learners, DragonBox employs clever game mechanics to introduce fundamental algebraic concepts without overwhelming students. By gradually increasing the complexity of puzzles and problems, this app builds a strong foundation in algebra while keeping young minds entertained.
Prodigy combines role-playing elements with mathematics to create an immersive gaming experience. Students engage in battles against mythical creatures by correctly answering math questions. The difficulty level adjusts according to their performance, ensuring they are continuously challenged.
The Future: Virtual Math Tutors with AI
In the past, struggling with difficult math problems often meant seeking help from human tutors or spending hours poring over textbooks. However, with the advent of virtual math tutors powered by artificial intelligence, personalized assistance is just a few clicks away.
AI-powered virtual math tutors can assess your proficiency level, identify areas where you need improvement, and provide tailored guidance and practice exercises. These virtual tutors use AI algorithms to adapt to your learning pace and style, ensuring an effective and personalized learning experience.
In conclusion, AI tools are revolutionizing math education by making it more accessible, engaging, and efficient. Whether you're a student looking to strengthen your math skills or a professional dealing with complex calculations, AI-powered apps and calculators can be invaluable resources on your educational journey. Embrace the power of AI in math education and discover how it can transform your math learning experience.