Can Artificial Intelligence Unlock How The Brain Learns?
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Ross Morrison McGill founded @TeacherToolkit in 2007, and today, he is one of the ‘most followed educators’on social media in the world. In 2015, he was nominated as one of the ‘500 Most Influential People in Britain’ by The Sunday Times as a result of…
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Can artificial intelligence help teachers unlock the secrets of how the brain learns?
Neuroeducation, powered by AI, offers personalised learning strategies grounded in neuroscience, making classrooms more inclusive, engaging, and effective.
This systematic review, Artificial Intelligence in Neuroeducation (Shiwlani et al., 2024), explores how AI tools such as adaptive learning platforms, neurofeedback systems, and gamified environments can enhance brain-based teaching strategies.
I was really excited to see this paper published!
I often thought about how students learn and retain information – what if technology could adapt to learning? – and today, this is achieved in real-time, reducing workload, wait time, and improving outcomes for everyone in the classroom!
Neuroeducation integrates neuroscience principles like cognitive load and memory formation to improve learning outcomes, and this research paper highlights practical strategies for teachers and addresses challenges like costs, ethical concerns, and accessibility.
Unlocking pupil potential with AI
AI in neuroeducation merges neuroscience principles with teaching, and technology, enabling teachers to personalise lessons based on how pupils learn best. Adaptive platforms provide tailored experiences by tracking pupil focus and engagement.
Some stand out tools for me include Pupil Progress, Attend, and Century.
Neurofeedback systems use real-time data, such as brain activity, to adjust teaching methods. Tools like VR and AR create immersive environments that align with the natural ways the brain processes information. These technologies not only enhance learning but also support neurodiverse pupils, making classrooms more inclusive.
Image: (Shiwlani et al., 2024, fig 3)
Scaling personalised learning with AI
Teachers face the challenge of meeting diverse pupil needs in real time. AI can help bridge this gap, if we could utilise brain research to marry how pupils learn and retain information. Evidence shows that strategies like retrieval and reducing cognitive load improve outcomes.
AI tools can scale these methods, and they already are (see Primary Quiz as an example) making study skills more accessible for every student, including those with learning difficulties.
However, barriers like ethical concerns, costs, and training needs must be addressed to unlock AI’s full potential in schools.
But, teachers can take small steps to incorporate AI into their classrooms:
- Use adaptive platforms like Quizlet or Anki for active recall and spaced repetition.
- Incorporate neurofeedback tools to monitor pupil focus and adjust lessons dynamically.
- Experiment with gamified platforms like Classcraft or Kahoot to boost engagement and motivation.
- Consider free or low-cost tools to explore AI’s potential without large investments.
School leaders should prioritise teacher training on using AI tools ethically and effectively while focusing on how these align with neuroscience principles to benefit pupils. I am already seeing and hearing this in most settings …
Practical questions for implementing AI
- How can AI tools support students with learning difficulties, like dyslexia or ADHD?
- What ethical considerations should teachers address when using AI in the classroom?
- Could AI-driven gamification make lessons more engaging for reluctant learners?
- How can teachers integrate low-cost AI tools into everyday practice?
- What training would help teachers confidently use AI tools in their teaching?
- How might AI tools enhance assessment and feedback processes?
- How can AI help reduce cognitive load for students?
- What strategies can teachers use to address algorithmic biases in AI tools?
- How could VR and AR improve inclusivity in lessons?
- What steps can teachers take today to start using AI-driven approaches?
The research concludes
Through artificial intelligence’s adaptive learning platforms – neurofeedback systems coupled with neuroscience principles, neuroplasticity, cognitive load optimisation, memory consolidation – the education landscape is further enhanced.
