Western New England University Implements AI Chatbot for Enhanced Student Support

What's Happening?

Western New England University has introduced an AI-powered chatbot named Spirit to assist students with campus-related inquiries and support. The chatbot, developed by EdSights, is designed to provide real-time answers and resources, enhancing student engagement and support. Spirit is integrated with the university's mascot, making it more approachable for students, especially first-year attendees. The chatbot operates 24/7, allowing students to access information outside regular office hours. It also features a proactive approach, asking students questions about their academic, financial, and personal wellness to identify those in need of additional support. The initiative aims to improve student retention and engagement by providing timely assistance and fostering a sense of belonging.

Why It's Important?

The implementation of AI chatbots like Spirit represents a significant shift in how educational institutions can support their students. By providing immediate access to information and resources, the chatbot helps reduce the burden on staff and ensures students receive timely assistance. This technology can enhance student retention rates, as evidenced by the higher persistence rates among students who engage with the chatbot. The initiative also highlights the potential for AI to improve student experiences by offering personalized support and fostering connections within the campus community. As more institutions adopt similar technologies, the landscape of student support services may evolve, potentially leading to more efficient and effective educational environments.

What's Next?

Western New England University plans to further integrate the chatbot's data into broader institutional strategies. The goal is to share insights with faculty and staff to better understand student needs and improve support services. The university aims to emphasize the blended AI-human interaction, using the chatbot's risk factors and measures to proactively address student needs. Over the next year, the university hopes to identify trends and patterns in student responses to enhance programming and support. This approach may serve as a model for other institutions looking to leverage AI for student engagement and support.