Mahidol University International College (MUIC) has made a significant leap in educational technology by introducing "AI Copter," an innovative artificial intelligence platform designed to assist students in their academic journey. This platform aims to enhance learning experiences by providing real-time academic advice, career analysis, and comprehensive course information, all available 24/7.
Professor Chulthida Chomchai, the Dean of MUIC, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that AI Copter is crafted to elevate the educational experience and improve the efficiency of academic guidance. It is specifically designed to help students select appropriate courses, minors, and certificate programs that align with their interests and future goals.
Developed on the Google Gemini platform, AI Copter utilizes advanced techniques such as Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and Fine-Tuning to enhance its ability to answer questions accurately and relevantly. This 12-month development project marks a significant milestone for the Thai education sector in applying AI technology to support effective teaching and learning.
The introduction of AI Copter aligns with global trends where leading universities are increasingly adopting AI to improve teaching efficiency and administrative management. For instance, Harvard University uses AI to assist in computer science tutoring, providing immediate responses to student inquiries and programming advice. Similarly, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) conducts ongoing research in Human-AI Interaction and AI Policy Research, while the University of California, Berkeley employs AI to evaluate student exams and analyze learning behaviors.
In China, institutions like Shenzhen University and Zhejiang University have also embraced AI, offering courses that utilize DeepSeek technology. These examples illustrate a growing recognition of AI's potential to enhance educational outcomes.
AI Copter provides numerous benefits to students, including:
- Real-time Academic Assistance: Students can inquire about courses, timetables, and study pathways instantly.
- Career Counseling: The system analyzes students' interests and academic performance to suggest suitable career paths.
- International Exchange Opportunities: AI Copter offers information and guidance on exchange programs and study opportunities abroad, supported by MUIC's network of over 140 partner universities worldwide.
- Rapid Information Services: The platform can alert students to important deadlines, university news, and other useful information.
Dr. Yingyot Chiarawuth, Deputy Dean of MUIC, highlighted that AI Copter is developed from MUIC's extensive database encompassing all aspects related to student needs, ensuring that it can effectively address their requirements. The rollout of AI Copter will occur in three phases:
- Phase 1 (Early 2025): Initial testing of AI services focused on academic advising, course registration, and student activity information.
- Phase 2 (Mid-2025): Expansion of AI services to include career guidance, internship opportunities, and options for further studies abroad.
- Phase 3 (Early 2026): Development of interactive, real-time services and integration into the college's course management system.
These advancements are expected to significantly reduce personnel costs, with projections estimating savings of between 5 to 10 million baht over the next five years by alleviating the workload of staff and academic advisors in providing initial consultations. This initiative also aims to minimize the need for increasing the number of educational advisors while enhancing service efficiency.
Moreover, MUIC is concurrently developing another AI system named Helix, intended to bolster the capabilities of faculty, staff, and researchers, with plans for its launch in the near future.
The launch of AI Copter not only reflects MUIC's commitment to innovation but also underscores its role in shaping a modern learning experience that meets the demands of the future. This initiative reinforces MUIC's image as a leading international educational institution, dedicated to preparing students to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
As the world of education continues to evolve, the integration of AI technologies like AI Copter illustrates a promising future for students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally.
