Learning About Learning:
Western Heights School
AI assistants are now more than simple answer machines. ChatGPT's new Study Mode, Claude's Learning Mode, and Gemini's Guided Learning represent a significant shift. Instead of just providing answers, these free tools act as adaptive, 24/7 personal tutors.
ChatGPT Study Mode
Select Study Mode from the plus menu when starting a new chat.
Start with context. Tell ChatGPT what you want to learn, why, and what you already know. The model excels at adapting to your level and guiding you step by step.
Gemini Guided Learning
Visit g.co/gemini/guidedlearning
Gemini is an excellent tutor.
Quizzes
Creats helpful infographics
Generates audio overviews in the style of NotebookLM
Creates custom Web pages
Creates simple digital flashcards
Below is an example of a scientific infographic
Other Google Learning Tools
Illuminate turns academic papers and research into audio summaries
Learn About responds thoroughly and helpfully to any inquiry
Learning Coach Gem is an assistant you can chat with.
Little Language Lessons offers quick takeaways.
LearnLM is Google’s family of language models for learning, grounded in educational research.
Claude Learning Mode
Select "Learning" from the style menu.
Tips:
As you learn, ask Claude to create artifacts - little interactive apps - that help you practice what you're learning. Also request occasional challenges, case studies, or quizzes.
Advantage:
Unlike ChatGPT, you can use Learning Mode within Claude Projects. That allows you to benefit from personalised learning alongside your uploaded documents and context. So you can upload a slew of files, reports, and research resources and let Claude tutor you on those materials.
Learn Mode vs. Answer Mode
Turn on the learning features for any of these AI assistants and you’ll quickly notice the difference.
Learning modes use Socratic questioning — asking rather than telling.
They adapt to your level of understanding.
They nudge you to make your own observations.
They help you test your understanding with informal quizzes.
They guide you step-by-step through complex topics rather than rushing to throw answers at you.
In learning mode, these assistants feel like tutors; in standard mode they’re more like interactive encyclopedias.
The difference is significant. Rather than getting fish handed to you, you are learning to fish.
4 Ways to Learn with Al
1. Understand a complex concept or skill
What it's for: Work or school topics you need to grasp thoroughly, or just topics you’re curious about
2. Indulge your intellectual curiosity
What it's for: Topics you find fascinating. Learning for its own sake.
3. Deepen your expertise
What it's for: Expand your understanding of something you’ve already studied.
4. Learn how to learn
What it's for: Discover how you learn best. Learn about learning and how to sharpen your brain.