Google has released a new research experiment, Learn Your Way, an AI tool designed to provide students with customised learning experiences.
The tool adapts content to a learner’s chosen grade level and interests, such as sport, music or food, generating multiple formats from the original material such as mind maps and audio lessons that provide real-time feedback and allow further personalisation.
Interactive quizzes throughout the experience allow students to test their understanding and identify gaps in their knowledge, with the tool guiding them back to sections where they struggled.
This approach aims to give students greater control over how they engage with and navigate their learning.
Unlike textbooks, which offer one-size-fits-all lessons, Learn Your Way uses generative AI to transform a single source document, such as a textbook PDF, into a range of interactive learning experiences.
In an early study involving 60 high school students in the United States, those using Learn Your Way scored 9% higher on immediate assessments and 11% higher on retention tests several days later compared with students using a traditional digital reader.
Visit learnyourway.withgoogle.com to explore the tool yourself.
Calls for ethical frameworks as AI use surges
While tools like Learn Your Way showcase the potential of AI to personalise learning, the rapid rollout of artificial intelligence in everyday life has also sparked debate about regulation, data use and the wider societal impacts of the technology.
AI tools can face challenges including biased outputs, inaccuracies in generated content, and questions around how student data is used and protected
Internet NZ chief executive Vivien Maidaborn says new technologies must come with new ethical frameworks.
The 2025 Internet Insights report showed that four out of five New Zealanders have used AI in the last year, but 52% of people say they are extremely or very concerned about its societal impact.
The report found most people use AI via search engines and chatbots, usually for asking questions or getting information (62%).
“In a very short time, we’ve gone from most people having a very limited understanding of what AI is and what it can do, to it being in use every day in almost every household,” says Maidaborn.
Internet NZ says decisions around AI governance should be across sectors and aligned with international best practice.
“New technologies offer a lot of exciting and useful opportunities, but we haven’t yet laid the groundwork to ensure AI use is not exacerbating harmful use of the Internet. AI right now is a bit like a train that’s left the station before the tracks have been built.”
