With help from a newly awarded grant, Middle Georgia State University (MGA) is leading an innovative artificial intelligence-related (AI) research project to create even better learning experiences for computer science students.

Dr. Myungjae Kwak, chair of MGA’s Department of Computer Science, and Dr. Jongho Seol, assistant professor, were recently awarded a $9,000 Affordable Materials Research Grant from Affordable Learning Georgia. Through this award, faculty members will fund the research, development, and evaluation of AI-based Python programming language learning software, which will be used in computer science courses in spring 2026.

The AI-driven adaptive learning system will teach fundamental Python programming concepts to students. The system's primary tasks include fine-tuning the LLAMA 3.3 model and creating a web application interface, through which students can practice coding tasks and answer quiz questions. The AI will offer feedback on coding submissions and track students’ progress and engagement. The system will dynamically adjust lessons and practice tasks based on individual student performance, adapting the difficulty and focus of future learning materials to provide personalized instruction. A student programmer will be hired to join the project and assist with platform development.

“Our goal is to harness the power of artificial intelligence to create a truly personalized learning experience for students,” said Kwak. “By developing this adaptive platform, we’re not only improving how programming is taught, but also advancing affordable, high-impact educational tools for the future.”

Beginning in spring 2026, the software will be tested in classrooms and evaluated for its impact on student learning outcomes, engagement, and satisfaction. Project research results will be shared through academic conferences and journals.

“This project is significant because it addresses a critical challenge in computer science education: how to effectively teach programming to students with diverse skill levels and learning styles,” Kwak said. “Students benefit directly through personalized learning experiences, increased engagement, and improved performance. The broader academic and tech community stands to gain from insights into how generative AI can transform instructional technologies.”