Search for: All records

Harnessing AI for enhanced learning: Insights from the robotics academyHow technology is tailoring personalised learning experiences for the AEC sector. Personalised learning, tailoring learning content and sequence for differences in ability, experience, and sociocultural backgrounds hold the promise to transform education. This transformation is propelled by three significant advancements in emerging technologies, each vital in realising personalised learning. The first of these advancements is in learning analytics, defined as the measurement, collection, analysis, and reporting of learner data (Siemens, 2013). Enhanced by AI and data mining techniques, learning analytics significantly deepens our understanding of learning processes by systematically monitoring learners’ performance and actions. This involves analyzing extensive datasets from learner interactions to uncover patterns, challenges, and cognitive load, providing a comprehensive view of the learning experience. 

This project addresses the urgent need for inclusive and scalable robotics training in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) technologies. In collaboration with three Minority Serving Institutions (Florida International University, Arizona State University, and University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa), we developed and tested immersive, adaptive learning environments that personalize robotics education for diverse student populations. These efforts include a VR-based curriculum for industrial robotics, an AR curriculum for environmental sensing technologies, and an overarching Robotics Academy framework that promotes open knowledge exchange and workforce connectivity. By combining real-time performance analytics, natural language processing, and biometric inputs, our systems support individualized learning paths and help mitigate algorithmic bias. This research advances equitable access to robotics education and provides a replicable model for technology-driven workforce development in the AEC sector. Ongoing evaluation demonstrates improved learner engagement, accessibility, and cross-platform skill transferability. 

Peterson, E., Bogosian, B., Vassigh, S. (2025). T. In Proc. 113th ACSA Annual Meeting (pp. ##-##). In press. 

A convergence of technology advancements including spatial computing, augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) can now support the personalization of learning environments and dynamically respond to learner performance data with personalized feedback. Augmented Learning for Environmental Robotics (ALERT), leverages advances in technology to research, develop, and test an augmented reality-enhanced (AR) curriculum for learning how to develop and use robotic environmental monitoring tools for collecting data on environmentally sensitive construction sites. With this project, our research team aims to develop the ALERT curriculum as an immersive learning environment, implement automation processes that dynamically adjust to learner performance, and address a pressing problem in the construction sector with recent advances in small robotics and remote sensing. 

Personalized learning, which customizes content and instructional sequences to account for differences in ability, experience, and sociocultural backgrounds, holds great promise for transforming education. This transformation is increasingly driven by significant advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI enables detailed analysis and reporting of learners' performance data, paving the way for the development of intelligent adaptive learning systems that offer personalized feedback aligned with each learner’s unique needs and progress. In parallel, immersive technologies are playing a pivotal role in enhancing educational experiences. Technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) create engaging, interactive environments that deepen learners' understanding and retention of complex concepts. Dr. Vassigh's presentation explores the integration of AI and VR in education, illustrated through a case study from an ongoing project. The talk will highlight the refinement of learning processes through these technologies and demonstrate how they can impact learner engagement and performance. 

AI, robotics, and automation are reshaping many industries, including the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries. For students aiming to enter these evolving fields, comprehensive and accessible training in high-tech roles is becoming increasingly important. Traditional robotics education, while often effective, usually necessitates small class sizes and specialized equipment. On-the-job training introduces safety risks, particularly for inexperienced individuals. The integration of advanced technologies for training presents an alternative that reduces the need for extensive physical resources and minimizes safety concerns. This paper introduces the Intelligent Learning Platform for Robotics Operations (IL-PRO), an innovative project that integrates the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and game-assisted learning for teaching robotic arms operations. The goal of this project is to address the limitations of traditional training through the implementation of personalized learning strategies supported by Adaptive Learning Systems (ALS). These systems hold the potential to transform education by customizing content to cater to various levels of understanding, preferred learning styles, past experiences, and diverse linguistic and socio-cultural backgrounds.Central to IL-PRO is the development of its ALS, which uses student progress variables and multimodal machine learning to infer students’ level of understanding and automate task and feedback delivery. The curriculum is organized into modules, starting with fundamental robotic concepts, and advancing to complex motion planning and programming. The curriculum is guided by a learner model that is continuously refined through data collection. Furthermore, the project incorporates gaming elements into its VR learning approach to create an engaging educational environment. Thus, the learning content is designed to engage students with simulated robots and input devices to solve sequences of game-based challenges. The challenge sequences are designed similarly to levels in a game, each with increasing complexity, in order to systematically incrementally build students' knowledge, skills, and confidence in robotic operations. The project is conducted by a team of interdisciplinary faculty from Florida International University (FIU), the University of California Irvine (UCI), the University of Hawaii (UH) and the University of Kansas-Missouri (UKM). The collaboration between these institutions enables the sharing of resources and expertise that are essential for the development of this comprehensive learning platform. 

The increasing environmental concerns call for more sophisticated and integrated educational methods. For sustainable outcomes, understanding and navigating complex environmental factors is essential. By imparting knowledge about environmental data and its applications, students can be better prepared to address environmental issues.The Augmented Learning for Environmental Robotics Technologies (ALERT) program introduces an educational method using augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI). It provides students, particularly those in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), with an immersive learning experience focused on environmental data and robotics. Considering the significant environmental footprint of the AEC sector—emanating from energy-intensive buildings, roads, and infrastructures—the ALERT initiative strives to instill a comprehensive understanding of environmental data collection and visualization. This is done with the aim of promoting data-centric design and construction for a more eco-friendly built environment.In the ALERT program, AR is employed to fashion an augmented learning space where students can engage with both real-time and past environmental data. They learn to set up environmental sensors, collect data, and visualize it to unearth hidden trends and connections. Additionally, AI ensures a tailored learning journey for each student, offering optimal challenges and support. This innovative blend of AR and AI not only offers an enriching learning experience but also prepares AEC students to be at the forefront of transformative shifts, especially those influenced by advancements like robotic automation, fostering a profound understanding of environmental data.This paper outlines the preliminary stages of the ALERT project, detailing its foundational research. Topics include the educational theories guiding the creation of a groundbreaking Intelligent Learning System (ILS) and curriculum, as well as the projected impact of the program. ALERT emerges as a promising venture, potentially empowering students with the expertise to reduce the ecological footprint of infrastructure, paving the way for a greener future.