From speaking practice to exam marking: Building trust and bridging the UX gap in EdTech

As AI tools become increasingly central to learners’ experiences, it’s vital that EdTech products differentiate themselves by delivering real value while maintaining user trust. In this talk, I’ll share insights from recent AI-powered projects—ranging from AI-driven speaking practice to automated exam marking—to illustrate how a principled product-development approach can surpass the capabilities and usefulness of generic AI solutions like ChatGPT. By prioritising transparency, collaborating closely with engineers and designers, and focusing on genuine learner needs, we can create features that not only solve real-world problems but also produce strong business outcomes.