AI-Integrated Learning Platform 'Cool English' Boosts Student Performance in Taiwan

The integration of AI into education is fueling a paradigm shift in Taiwan. According to the Ministry of Education (MOE), students who utilized the 'Cool English' platform for over four hours in conjunction with the generative AI tool 'e-Tu' demonstrated significant academic improvement in Mandarin, English, and mathematics.

'e-Tu' serves as a conversational learning partner, offering guidance, addressing student inquiries, and providing positive reinforcement to clarify complex concepts. Ministry officials noted that students struggling academically have particularly benefited from this supportive AI intervention.

Yeh Chia-hung, Director of the Department of Information and Technology Education, highlighted that results from the 2024 academic growth assessment show substantial gains in pass rates for those utilizing the AI-integrated platform. Specifically, pass rates rose from 45% to 62% in Mandarin, 35% to 58% in English, and 37% to 58% in mathematics.

Since its full-scale launch, over 750,000 teachers and students have used 'e-Tu.' Regarding parental concerns over screen time and digital dependency, Yeh emphasized that the pedagogical design prioritizes balanced learning. AI interaction is typically limited to 5-10 minutes per session, with the remainder of the class time devoted to group discussions and teacher-led instruction.

Yeh compared the current apprehension toward AI to historical reactions against the introduction of PCs and the internet. He noted that while AI will transform educational methods, the essence of education—understanding, care, and companionship—remains anchored in the teacher's role. The MOE is currently developing digital literacy guides for parents to foster safe and effective home-based digital learning environments.