Fide research · Proposal
Does AI assistance build understanding that lasts without the tool?
A proposal comparing answer-first and scaffolded assistance, with independent learning and transfer as the outcomes of interest.
Follow or contribute ↓The problem
A learner can complete a task successfully with AI without retaining the understanding needed to solve the next problem independently. Immediate performance and satisfaction cannot by themselves establish educational benefit.
Fide’s approach
We want to distinguish help that supports a learner’s judgment from help that substitutes for it. The proposed evaluation follows what people can do after assistance is removed, while accounting for prior knowledge and accessibility needs.
Working hypothesis · to be tested
Scaffolded assistance that invites reasoning may improve unaided transfer compared with answer-first assistance. The benefit may vary by learner and task, and it may impose costs or disadvantages for some access needs.
Proposed first study
Co-design a narrow adult-learning task and scoring rubric with educators and learning researchers.
Develop a protocol comparing no-AI, answer-first, and scaffolded assistance with matched learning objectives and materials.
Plan immediate assessment and delayed unaided retention and transfer tasks. Predefine outcomes and account for prior knowledge and accessibility.
Obtain appropriate ethics review and informed consent before recruiting participants. A study involving minors would require a separate protocol and expertise.
A proposal, not evidence of educational benefit or harm. No participant study is underway. Findings from adult learners would not establish effects on children or family relationships.
Research record
This page is the current study brief. Substantive updates and released materials will remain here as the project develops.
A first-study approach and collaboration needs have been outlined. The design needs a research lead and domain review before it can move into a participant study.
Related Fide research calls
FID-084 · Learning, Agency, and Relationships in AI-Assisted Education →Follow the research
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