Mathematics Teaching Seminar: Jay Howell

The CAILA (Calculus-Aligned Interactive Learning Assistant) Project Abstract: The CAILA project, undertaken during Summer 2026, explores whether a commercially available large language model (LLM) can be customized to serve as an effective learning assistant for students in an office-hours-style setting. Using Google Gemini Custom Gems, the project team developed and tested several versions of CAILA, incorporating guided-discovery questioning, confidence-aware scaffolding, and pedagogical guardrails designed to keep explanations aligned with a standard Calculus I course. This talk will summarize the project’s progress, including the development and testing of these instructional features, the limitations encountered during implementation, and directions for future work. The event will be available both by Zoom and in Wean Hall 8220. Please complete this RSVP form if you plan on attending. Lunch will be provided to those attending in-person.