Khanmigo's Academic Essay Evaluation Tool, According to Sal Khan, Might Enhance the Accessibility of Educational Writing Instruction
Sal Khan, the founder of Khan Academy, has announced the launch of a new writing tool called Khanmigo's Academic Essay Tool. This innovative AI-powered tool aims to strengthen Khan Academy's presence in reading and writing, matching or even surpassing its current influence in math and science.
Khan believes that generative AI has the potential to revolutionise the way writing is taught in schools. The tool is designed to provide specific feedback on a student's essay, offering suggestions on structure, organisation, tone, introduction, and conclusions, as well as helping students build and support their arguments.
Moreover, the AI will not only offer feedback but also assist in the writing process. It can help with thesis statements, outlining, and finding data to support points. During testing, the tool was found to complement the professionalism of the writing and suggest stronger thesis statements in the introduction. It also offered good advice on how to write a thesis statement.
When assigned a writing task, the AI will report back to the teacher, including information about how long it took to complete the essay and any issues encountered during the writing process. The AI will also suggest a grade based on the rubric created by the teacher, but the ultimate grade will remain the teacher's decision.
Teachers can assign writing activities with AI, including rubrics, using Khan Academy's Academic Essay Tool. This tool is particularly beneficial for students who may not receive adequate feedback on their writing, making it difficult for them to improve.
Khan Academy is focusing on the development of writing instruction, with Sal Khan working on a new book about generative AI and writing education. He collaborates with AltSchool to improve the learning tool Khanmigo and enhance it for students in the future.
It's important to note that Khanmigo's Academic Essay Tool does not write essays for students. Instead, it serves as a tool to help students improve their writing skills and receive valuable feedback. Students can also ask the tool clarifying questions to better understand the feedback provided.
In a society where writing skills are increasingly crucial, Khan Academy's focus on writing education is a significant step forward. With the help of generative AI and collaboration with educational institutions like AltSchool, Khan Academy aims to make writing education accessible for all students, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.
