This training session gives tutors a comprehensive view of the Aptem virtual assistant (AVA), including the benefits to tutors and learners and highlights some best practices to make the most of the resource.
This 30-minute training session includes a live demonstration of the virtual assistant to show the instant responses to common learner queries and the range of support available.
Q & A from the webinar
How do I encourage my learners to actually use AVA?
Start small and introduce it early, ideally at onboarding. Show them how to ask clear, specific questions, and point them to the Help Centre resources we created for learners. If learners see it as part of their normal learning journey from day one, adoption rates are much higher.
What if learners rely too much on the virtual assistant instead of developing their own thinking?
AVA is there to guide, not replace, critical thinking. In reviews, you can use the audit trail to check how learners are using it. If you see over-reliance, that’s a coaching opportunity: encourage learners to use the virtual assistant for clarification and stretch, not as a shortcut.
Can learners use AVA to structure their presentations?
Learners can absolutely use AVA to help structure their presentations. For example, when asked to create a PowerPoint on “supporting an underperforming team member,” the virtual assistant generated a clear slide-by-slide outline with titles and bullet points; essentially a full presentation plan. However, AVA currently can’t create or export PowerPoint files directly. It guides learners through how to build their slides in PowerPoint based on the outline it provides, including advice on layout, visuals, and formatting.
Will this replace me as a tutor?
Not at all. AVA takes care of routine queries so you can focus on high-value, personalised support. Learners still need your coaching, mentoring, and encouragement; AVA just frees up more of your time for that.
Does this mean I’ll have less contact with learners?
No; it means your contact is more meaningful. Instead of answering repetitive admin-style questions, your time with learners can focus on skills development, progress reviews, and the areas where your expertise makes the biggest impact.
What kind of questions should I steer learners towards?
Encourage factual, scenario-based, and stretch questions; for example, asking for guidance on decision-making techniques, or practising interview-style questions for EPA. Avoid vague ones like ‘What do I do next?’; those don’t give learners helpful responses.
Can AVA support Functional Skills as well as technical knowledge?
Yes; learners can ask method or support questions in English and Maths, such as how to structure a sentence or how to approach a particular type of maths problem. It’s a great way to reinforce functional skills outside of classroom time.
How can the audit trail really help me in reviews?
You can see exactly what your learner has been asking; including the time of day, frequency, and type of question. That gives you insight into whether they’re struggling, stretching themselves, or engaging outside of hours. It’s a brilliant discussion starter in reviews.
What if I suspect an assessment answer has been copied from AVA?
You can search the audit trail using Control+F to check whether a learner has asked that specific question. That way, you can identify if they’re lifting content directly. It’s also an opportunity to coach them on how to use AVA responsibly; for guidance, not for ready-made answers.