Collaborative augmentation and simplification of text (CoAST): pedagogical applications of natural language processing in digital learning environments

• DOI: 10.1007/s10984-021-09368-9
• Publication Date: 2021-05-22T04:04:06Z
• Authors: Matthew Shardlow; Sam Sellar; David Rousell
• Keywords: Interface (matter)

Abstract The digitisation of higher education is raising significant questions about the impact artificial intelligence and automation on teaching learning environments, highlighting need to investigate how teachers students can work with new educational technologies in complementary ways. This paper reports results from a pilot study collaborative augmentation simplification text (CoAST) system, which online software designed facilitate engagement university theoretically-sophisticated academic texts. CoAST offers digital interface that uses natural language processing algorithms identify words be difficult understand for readers at different ability levels. Course lecturers use their pedagogical content knowledge add brief annotations identified words. was trialed using quasi-experimental design (1) 23 undergraduate Education Studies (2) technology solutions students. Results suggest environment effectively mediate enhance relationships between teachers, students, complex theoretical