Instructure, the company behind the widely used Canvas Learning Management System, announced last week two developments aimed at expanding the use of artificial intelligence within the learning ecosystem. It is a global partnership with Openai and the launch of a new platform called Igniteai.
OpenAI integration enables LLM workflows on the canvas
According to a news release, partnership with OpenAI allows educators to create customized GPT-style experiences directly within Canvas LMS via a feature called LLM-enabled assignments. Educators can use this feature to define how AI interacts with students, specify learning goals, and determine what evidence to generate and return. Students engage in AI in a conversational format, and their responses are evaluated for evidence of understanding that appears to instructors.
The news release states that student data remains within the Canvas environment and is not shared with Openai, and teachers will maintain control over AI prompts and learning goals.
According to an official statement from Openai's Vice President and General Manager of Education, Leah Belsky, the collaboration aims to provide tools that allow for a “further, more personalized, and more connected learning experience.”
The news release further states that the global partnership reflects “a strategic shift towards AI companies working side-by-side to shape the future of education,” suggesting industry partnerships are the path forward.
Instructure's new AI platform
In parallel with Openai's announcement, Instructure introduced Igniteai, a new platform designed to streamline AI usage across its products. Built on top of AWS Bedrock, a platform that allows developers to test new AI models, Igniteai is part of the canvas and learning, and is intended to support both native and partner-developed AI tools.
The news release describes Igniteai as a tool that enables educators to automate tasks ranging from quizzes and rubric creation to content coordination, grading and feedback. IgniteAgent also includes chatbots that help you complete complex workflows and support interoperability with other AI agents on Instructure's network of over 1,100 Ed-Tech partners.
According to a news release, early adopters at Florida International University who tested Igniteai's functionality cited its translation capabilities and direct collaboration with the company's research and development team as key benefits.
“Features like staff who want to embrace AI, especially translation capabilities, provide a powerful way for student organizations to access education.
Both Openai integration and IgniteAi launch last week reflect an increasing emphasis by major Ed-Tech companies on built-in interoperable AI tools designed for educators and student users.
Editor's Note: This story was developed in collaboration with GPT-4 and reviewed and edited by CDE editorial staff.
