The Educator's Co-Pilot: Leveraging Generative AI and OERs for Learning Path Design

This chapter explores the intersection of generative AI and personalized learning, focusing on the evolving role of educators in using large language models (LLMs) to design customized educational experiences. As generative AI technologies gain prominence in education, understanding their potential to enhance learning while addressing educators’ practical challenges becomes increasingly important. The chapter examines how LLMs are integrated into teaching strategies, highlighting their ability to generate coherent learning paths aligned with diverse learner profiles and educational goals. To support this integration, the chapter introduces the ENCORE ecosystem, a digital tool designed to help educators develop lesson plans by combining LLMs with Open Educational Resources (OERs). ENCORE provides modular APIs and an intuitive interface, enabling the personalization of content and the construction of adaptive learning pathways tailored to individual needs. The tool leverages generative AI to streamline the selection and alignment of learning materials with specific objectives. A user study evaluates the practical use of AI-driven features, offering insights into educators’ experiences, challenges, and opportunities. The chapter concludes by exploring future directions for AI in education, emphasizing strategies to foster effective collaboration between educators and AI tools to enhance personalized learning outcomes.