MathVC: An LLM-Simulated Multi-Character Virtual Classroom for Mathematics Education
MathVC is an LLM-simulated multi-persona virtual classroom that creates AI-powered peer agents to facilitate collaborative mathematical problem-solving for middle school students. The system was evaluated with 14 U.S. middle-schoolers to assess engagement, motivation, and collaborative learning through simulated peer interactions with intentionally injected misconceptions.
Collaborative problem solving (CPS) is essential in mathematics education, fostering deeper learning through the exchange of ideas. Yet, classrooms often lack the resources, time, and peer dynamics needed to sustain productive CPS. Recent advancements in Large Language Models (LLMs) offer a promising avenue to enhance CPS in mathematical education. We designed and developed MathVC, a multi-persona LLM simulated virtual classroom platform to facilitate CPS in mathematics. MathVC combines a meta p