Chat2Learn Suite

The project consists of two interconnected, exploratory studies that will inform the development of the Chat2Learn Suite. The team will conduct both phases of research with preschool and kindergarten classrooms that serve primarily low-income families. 

In the first study, the team will conduct at least two consecutive one-time mini experiments with preschool and kindergarten teachers and their students in schools. These mini experiments will be conducted with a cohort of 20-30 teachers and their classrooms (split evenly between preschool and kindergarten teachers). For each experiment, the team will randomize classrooms to one of two conditions that excludes or includes a key design element of Chat2Learn for Classrooms. The project team will test design elements that minimize teacher attention to digital devices and optimize engagement with students. Participating teachers will be directed to use the program during a short, fixed amount of time. The team will collect video recorded data on teacher-student interactions during the experiments and conduct post-experiment interviews with teachers. 

In the second study, the project team will conduct an 8-week pilot of the Chat2Learn Suite in 3 preschool and 3 kindergarten classrooms serving a total of 100 families. Researchers will provide the 6 pilot classrooms with access to a pilot protype of the Chat2Learn Suite, which includes the linked Chat2Learn for Classrooms and Chat2Learn for Parents. The team will track program usage data on the back end of the Suite, namely the number and quality of exchanges between teachers/parents and students and between teachers and parents. Researchers will also conduct classroom observations and collect video recorded data on teacher-student interactions during the pilot period. The team will conduct post-pilot surveys and interviews with both teachers and parents. The team will analyze the data across both studies to determine the program’s feasibility and identify design features that increase teacher and family engagement with the program as well as barriers to usage. The project will determine next steps for the final testing and development of the Suite in preparation for launching and scaling the program in the next phase of work.