Abstract:

The rapid evolution in the tech world has coined the digital human term in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is being used in all spheres of life to mimic human intelligence and efficiency. It is evident from the literature that conversational chatbots previously and 3D agents known as digital humans have recently been very popular in the evolving field of teaching and training to make a better learning experience for learners and teaching professionals. To prepare future teachers in the best possible way for their everyday professional life, simulations that are close to the action are suitable (e.g., simulation of a conversation with a colleague or students). Such simulations can be implemented with an AI agent, for example. An educational 3D AI agent is an autonomous virtual agent that contacts learners in an interactive learning environment, creating an authentic and realistic learning experience. In This research, we present a system architecture that provides a concrete platform for learners, especially for prospective teachers during their academic experience. Here, we specifically address the conversation simulation between a prospective teacher and an AI agent simulating the other part (students, colleagues, or supervisor), to train prospective teachers' communication skills. Communication competence – as a generic skill – is necessary for social interactions in the learning environment of the school. Communication is not only needed in the classroom with students (classroom disruptions, discussions regarding grades), but also among colleagues, school administrators, and parents. The preliminary module is a conversational chatbot of the GPT3 algorithm that is an audio conversation in the German language with dialogue flow tools. The second part of the system consists of a 3D avatar to mimic human features and characteristics, and finally, the system is embedded with video camera conferencing so that learners and digital humans can have the most authentic conversation possible. We have addressed the design, architecture, and application of the aforementioned platform for future teachers' education. We have also highlighted a technical overview of different tools and technologies to create an authentic human-centric learning environment with the use of Artificial Intelligence to test communication competencies.

Keywords:

Digital human, AI Agent, chatbot, Conversational AI, Authentic AI Based Learning, Teacher Education, Simulation-based learning, Communication Competencies.