In an innovative move to bolster student engagement and provide timely support, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University unveiled a new chatbot named Aggie at A&T. This advanced AI platform aims to capture students’ voices, identify potential challenges faced by students, and facilitate access to essential resources through convenient text messaging.
Powered by EdSights, Aggie utilizes a unique blend of artificial intelligence and research-backed methodologies to create a responsive and proactive communication channel.
“We are now using AI to streamline communication to students and further promote their success,” said Kase Gregory, implementation specialist.
Aggie operates on students’ preferred mode of communication—text messaging—engaging them every seven to ten days to check in on their academic and emotional well-being. With its ability to simulate human interaction, this customizable chatbot offers tailored outreach, enabling students to receive timely support based on their needs. Furthermore, Aggie provides 24/7 assistance for frequently asked questions, ensuring students have round-the-clock access to information.
Aggie’s Impact
Since its launch in October 2024, Aggie has made notable strides in enhancing student experience at N.C. A&T. By sending proactive check-ins and reminders about academic deadlines, financial aid, and wellness resources, Aggie has established itself as a crucial tool for fostering student success. To date, 98% of students have opted to continue receiving texts from Aggie, with 36% actively engaging with the chatbot—sending over 12,300 messages since its introduction.
Aggie’s contributions extend beyond mere reminders; the chatbot has effectively identified barriers to student success, connecting individuals with resources in 1,705 instances thus far. In its first significant outreach, known as the “Temperature Check,” Aggie reached out to 11,276 students to assess their feelings about the fall term, uncovering vital insights into their overall well-being. Through subsequent campaigns, Aggie helped identify students who expressed a need for academic support and those grappling with mental health challenges.
As Aggie continues to evolve, its real-time data-driven approach ensures that the university can respond effectively to the needs of its student population, creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
