Pearson plc Enhances Student Learning with AI-Driven Tools for Deeper Cognitive Engagement
- Pearson's study shows AI tools enhance higher-order thinking and cognitive engagement among college students.
- The new "Go Deeper" feature promotes critical thinking and deeper learning through thought-provoking prompts.
- Pearson adapts its educational offerings to support students' critical thinking and prepare them for a changing world.

Pearson's Commitment to Enhancing Student Learning Through AI Tools
Pearson plc, a leading entity in lifelong learning, recently unveils findings from a study that underscores the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The report, titled "Asking to Learn: What student queries to Generative AI reveal about cognitive engagement," analyzes nearly 130,000 queries from 8,700 college students utilizing Pearson's AI-powered study tool embedded in Campbell Biology. The results reveal that approximately one-third of student inquiries reflect higher-order thinking skills, which align with the advanced levels of the revised Bloom's Taxonomy, including applying, analyzing, and evaluating information. This pivotal insight highlights the potential of AI tools to foster deeper cognitive engagement among students, thereby enhancing their learning experiences.
Dr. Muireann Hendriksen, Pearson’s Principal Learning Scientist and the study’s lead author, emphasizes the importance of purpose-built AI tools in facilitating meaningful educational interactions. The findings suggest that when students are equipped with technology that encourages critical thinking, they are more likely to engage in insightful inquiries. This alignment with higher-order cognitive skills not only enriches their understanding of the subject matter but also prepares them for academic challenges and real-world problem-solving scenarios. The data collected reflects a shift in how students approach their studies, indicating a growing reliance on AI to enhance their learning journey.
In response to these findings, Pearson introduces the "Go Deeper" feature, which aims to further enrich the educational experience. This enhancement encourages students to engage in deeper learning by prompting them to reflect critically on their questions. For instance, when students ask for explanations, the Go Deeper tool not only provides answers but also follows up with thought-provoking prompts, urging students to apply concepts in different contexts. This approach not only fosters a culture of inquiry but also cultivates essential reasoning skills that are vital in both academic and everyday scenarios. Pearson’s integration of such innovative features demonstrates its commitment to advancing educational practices through technology, ultimately aiming to create a brighter future for learners.
In addition to its focus on AI-enhanced learning, Pearson continues to adapt its offerings in response to the evolving educational landscape. The company’s dedication to providing tools that promote critical thinking aligns with current trends in educational technology, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the demands of a rapidly changing world. As institutions increasingly integrate technology into their curricula, Pearson remains at the forefront, championing the use of AI to support learners in their academic pursuits.
The ongoing development of tools and features that enhance cognitive engagement illustrates Pearson's commitment to innovation in education, reinforcing its position as a leader in lifelong learning.