Update on Progress of Adaptive Learning Initiative in Schools

Mr Shawn Huang Wei Zhong asked the Minister for Education (a) whether he will provide an update on the progress of the adaptive learning initiative in schools; (b) whether there are pilot programmes planned in schools which will facilitate the adaptive learning initiative; and (c) what infrastructure developments are necessary to be undertaken in schools that will facilitate adaptive learning.

Developing an AI-enabled adaptive learning system to support teaching and learning in our schools is part of MOE’s plans under Singapore’s National AI Strategy. This approach complements the role of the teacher, who remains central to the learning experience. The system will use machine learning to tell how each student responds to learning materials and activities, and customise learning for each student. In the process, we seek to improve learning outcomes for our students, especially among the lower-progress learners.

We plan to introduce the adaptive learning system in a progressive and systematic manner starting with Primary and Lower Secondary Mathematics. The system will be piloted with a few schools in 2022, so that we can glean learning points and inform our approach on more pervasive deployment. Subsequently, we will consider extending the system to other subjects and other levels.

The adaptive learning system will be integrated with the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS), our national online learning platform for schools. This will ensure that all students and teachers have easy access to the system, and allow a seamless blending of adaptive learning capabilities with the learning resources and tools in SLS.