Personalized Learning Platforms: Adaptive Tutoring Algorithms That Scale
Introduction Personalized learning platforms promise to tailor instruction to each learner’s needs—delivering the right problem, hint, or explanation at the right time. Behind the scenes, adaptive tutoring algorithms model student knowledge, predict learning outcomes, and select pedagogical actions to maximize mastery. This article describes the core algorithmic families (Bayesian/Deep Knowledge Tracing, Item Response Theory, contextual bandits), practical design patterns, real-world examples, evaluation metrics, ethical considerations, and where the field is headed. Key Takeaways Section Highlights Core methods Bayesian Knowledge Tracing, Deep Knowledge Tracing, Item Response Theory, contextual bandits, spaced repetition Data & tooling Use longitudinal interaction logs (ASSISTments, Khan Academy); frameworks include standard ML toolkits and domain-specific libraries Applications Intelligent tutoring systems for K–12, adaptive practice (Khan Academy), multi-inst...