IU International University of Applied Sciences developed its own AI agent for teaching

• Self-learning system: A new AI agent in Syntea analyses student interactions and makes individual learning recommendations.
• Proactive reminders of learning objectives: Syntea now reminds students of critical learning objectives via push notifications.
• Multimodal diversity: Syntea integrates text, video, images and interactive applications for a varied learning experience. 
• Making everyday life easier: Administrative tasks such as course planning can be carried out directly via Syntea in future.
   

Erfurt, Germany, 29 January 2025. AI expert and IU advisory board member Sascha Lobo recently emphasised the importance of "AI tools such as learning agents for learning processes" as the key to the digital revolution An AI agent is an intelligent system that independently takes on tasks, optimises workflows and makes proactive recommendations based on user data. Recently OpenAI presented an AI agent for ChatGPT, Microsoft also introduced agents for Microsoft 365 Copilot at the end of 2024.

Now, Germany's largest university is also implementing its own developed AI agent in teaching: IU has enhanced its AI learning assistant Syntea, introduced in 2023, with AI agent functions to make learning even more personalized and promising for its students. While Syntea previously provided individualized learning feedback to IU students, it now takes it a step further by dynamically adapting its didactic methods to the students' learning styles – for example, by suggesting suitable learning methods or setting proactive reminders for necessary learning phases.

IU has successfully piloted the new agent functions in Syntea and plans to roll them out in the first online courses of its distance learning programme by the end of the first quarter of 2025. This positions IU International University as one of the first organisations in Germany to develop its own AI agent and among the first German universities to integrate an agent-based AI learning assistant into teaching. 

"Our goal is to continuously enhance the learning experience for our students by leveraging the new opportunities AI provides," says Dr. Sven Schütt, CEO of IU International University of Applied Sciences.

"With the introduction of AI agent functions to Syntea, we are ushering in a new era of learning. Syntea now independently thinks ahead, proactively suggesting the next learning steps while constantly evolving. It flexibly adapts to each student's unique learning style, offering personalised learning methods and proactive support. Unlike a standard learning assistant, we now provide our students with a fully tailored, future-focused learning environment," continues Dr Sven Schütt, CEO of IU International University of Applied Sciences.

Syntea independently suggests suitable learning methods

Unlike the previous approach, where fixed learning processes were prescribed, the new agent-based Syntea adapts dynamically to students' learning objectives. It independently determines which method is best suited to each student—whether it’s a training session, a quiz, a Socratic dialogue, or even playful elements like an escape game. Additionally, Syntea can proactively remind students of study times and tasks, with notifications sent via push messages or WhatsApp if desired.

"Our goal is to make the learning process as personalised as possible by proactively engaging with students," explains Quintus Stierstorfer, Director of Synthetic Teaching. “Syntea selects the most suitable methods based on each student's individual needs.”

Session feedback agent and multimodal learning

A key innovation is Syntea's ability to provide real-time feedback during the learning process. An AI agent evaluates every interaction between Syntea and the student, delivering personalised recommendations for the next session. This enables students to tailor their learning experience—whether by tackling simpler tasks, exploring new formats, or adjusting the content to fit their needs.

Additionally, Syntea now integrates multimodal elements seamlessly into its interactions. Text, video, images, and interactive applications work together harmoniously within the learning experience. This variety not only enhances engagement but also ensures a richer and more immersive understanding of the material.

Administrative tasks can now be completed directly in Syntea

In addition, everyday student life is made easier by integrating administrative tasks—from course planning to organizing semesters off. Syntea simplifies administrative processes with proactive notifications and personalized support. Even more complex tasks, such as planning module combinations or applying for semesters abroad, are supported by interactive and user-friendly features within Syntea.

“The integration of these services into Syntea offers a seamless experience, allowing students to spend less time on organizational matters and more time focusing on their academic goals,” says Stierstorfer.

About Syntea

Syntea is an AI-supported learning buddy that was specially developed by IU International University of Applied Sciences to meet the needs of its students. It supports the achievement of learning goals, adapts to the learning pace and rhythm of the individual, continuously tracks learning progress and helps to identify and close knowledge gaps.

Further information at: https://www.iu.de/en/syntea/

Previous press releases published by IU International University of Applied Sciences on Syntea: https://www.iu.de/news/en/?h=1&t=syntea