Virtual AI tutor at Coburg University of Applied Sciences

Researchers at Coburg University are developing a virtual tutor that helps students learn using virtual reality and artificial intelligence.

The animated companion understands questions, explains teaching content, and adapts individually to the learning progress.

Conversations with an avatar in virtual reality

In the Laboratory for Virtual Environments and Social Cognition at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, students experience a unique form of learning. Equipped with VR headsets, they immerse themselves in a virtual world and encounter an AI-supported tutor.

Greta Schlimm, a student participating as a test subject, discusses biological topics – even though she is studying business administration. "It's crazy because you know it's not real," she describes her experience, "but it somehow feels like you're having a conversation."

Individual support through embodied Virtual Tutors

The research team, led by Prof. Dr. Stephan Streuber, is investigating how so-called embodied virtual tutors (eVTs) can improve learning. Dr. Maria Alejandra Quiros Ramirez, who is the lead researcher for the project, is comparing different learning scenarios – from traditional textbooks to interactive AI tutors.

“Previous research shows that students significantly improve their learning outcomes when they receive individual support,” explains Quiros Ramirez. Since personal one-on-one support with human tutors is not feasible for everyone, virtual alternatives are intended to fill this gap.

Modern technologies for personalized learning

The virtual tutor combines current developments from several areas: Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and Large Language Models such as ChatGPT enable natural conversations and individual customization.

The virtual learning companions can be trained with expert knowledge and take the learners' progress into account in their responses. The project is funded by the Foundation for Innovation in Higher Education. Through user studies, the team is continuously improving the prototype's usability. Similar systems are already being used in the gambling industry. AI influencers deployed.

Responsible use of AI technologies

AI research at Coburg University of Applied Sciences focuses on the optimal and responsible use of new technologies. The Coburg University Research Center for Responsible Artificial Intelligence (CRAI) is dedicated to interdisciplinary AI research that incorporates ethical considerations.

Students can explore these future technologies in subjects such as computer science, business informatics 2.0, visual computing, and data science. Some degree programs also start in the summer semester, for which interested students can register until March 15, 2026.

Sierks Media / © Photo: JESHOOTS.COM, Unsplash