OneTutor

Project background

Generative AI is already firmly established in the daily academic lives of many students—particularly for research, summarizing, writing, and exam preparation. At the same time, universities are increasingly using AI-based systems that answer questions and support learning processes based on course materials. The AIffectiveness in Education project therefore investigates how an AI tutor can be used in courses in a meaningful, pedagogically responsible, and effective manner. 

The focus is on how students actually use OneTutor, what kind of support they perceive as helpful, and under what conditions positive effects on the learning process and learning success arise. In addition, Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences is currently evaluating numerous different courses to determine the suitability of the course types and levels for the OneTutor tool. Furthermore, Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences is actively testing various ways to apply the OneTutor tool in courses. 

Since AI-based tools have the potential to transform higher education in the long term, robust empirical findings are needed to make well-informed decisions about course design, exam formats, and support services in the future.

Project objective

As part of the project, the AI tutor OneTutor—originally developed at the Technical University of Munich and now operated as a startup—is being introduced into courses at Bavarian colleges and universities and evaluated scientifically.

The goal is to gain insights into the effectiveness, acceptance, and pedagogically meaningful use of AI tutors in higher education. The independent accompanying research conducted by the Bavarian Research Institute for Digital Transformation (bidt) focuses in particular on analyzing the effects on learning behavior, usage patterns, and learning success. Based on this, the project aims to identify the potential, limitations, and areas for further development regarding the use of AI tutors.

Project procedure

OneTutor is used on a semester-by-semester basis in selected courses across various faculties. Instructors integrate the platform into their courses, prepare teaching materials, and incorporate quizzes and learning activities. Students can use the tool especially during periods of intensive study and for exam preparation. OneTutor provides standardized surveys for students and instructors; usage data is also analyzed.

At Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences, instructors receive support in setting up their courses through training sessions, schedules, and ongoing assistance. At the end of the semester, experiences are systematically evaluated—including through discussions with faculty—to identify suitable use cases and continuously improve the service. Findings and best practices are shared through project communications.

Innovation

OneTutor combines generative AI with specific course materials from individual courses, thereby creating a secure, course-specific learning environment. Students receive low-threshold, personalized support, can ask comprehension questions in natural language, and can assess their learning progress with tailored quizzes.

At the same time, instructors gain insights into common questions, challenging topics, and usage patterns. If the project is successful, it will provide universities with an empirically sound foundation for the pedagogically sound and responsible use of AI tutors in higher education.