Marshall E-Learning founder launches new AI student support project
Student Compass explores a move from traditional click-and-read digital learning towards question-and-answer support.
David Marshall, founder of Marshall E-Learning, has launched a new project exploring how AI could change the way digital learning and support is delivered to university students.
Student Compass is an AI student support system designed to let students ask questions in their own words and receive relevant guidance, rather than working through conventional click-and-read digital learning. Where appropriate, the system is designed to help students find the right person or university service rather than keep them talking to a chatbot.
Marshall founded Marshall E-Learning in 2002 and sold the company to Ciphr in 2023. Student Compass is his first new digital learning project since the sale.
"For more than 20 years I've developed e-learning where we decide what people need to know and they work their way through it," said Marshall. "I'm interested in turning that around. What happens if the student starts with the question, and the learning and support responds to what they actually need?
"I don't think AI should mean replacing people. One of the things we're exploring with Student Compass is whether it can make it easier for students, particularly those who may be isolated or struggling, to find the right human support."
The project has initially focused on some of the more difficult processes students encounter at university, including academic misconduct, extenuating circumstances, appeals and complaints.
Student support specialist Pete Quinn, former Director of Student Support at the University of York, has written the project's first white paper, Developing a Student Compass AI Character. It explores how AI could help students understand these processes while protecting the importance of human advice and support.
Student Compass is being developed with Indigo Multimedia in Newcastle. The project also plans to involve student interns in developing and testing the service, giving students practical experience of working with AI.
The white paper is free to download, with no registration, at studentcompass.uk.
David Marshall
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