9 EdTech Developments That "Emerged" in Russian Universities

Security system for universities
Service for labor market analysis
Platform for employment of university graduates
Classrooms for hybrid classes
System of personalized learning based on neurotechnology and AI
Simulator for teachers, training communication with students' parents
Virtual tutor in programming
Program to help understand what skills are missing for employment
AI-trainer for public speaking

Course with employment: "The profession of a Methodologist from scratch to PRO"

Security system for universities

In 2022, an innovative security system developed by GLONASS was tested in one of the buildings of Tomsk State University (TSU). This system includes sensors for navigation within the building, software for processing video information, and emergency call buttons. The development has been successfully integrated with existing university systems. Additionally, TSU has created a situation center that provides monitoring and response to emergency situations. The new security system is aimed at increasing the level of safety for students and university staff, as well as improving rapid response in crisis situations.

Sergey Shipilov, Acting Head of the TSU Department of Radiophysics, reported that university specialists have developed a number of software solutions for the security system. These include a mobile application for the situation center, created with modern technologies and user needs in mind. This development highlights TSU's efforts in the field of innovative technology and security.

The application for students and faculty provides location determination with high accuracy, up to five meters. This allows for prompt notification of all participants in the educational process about emergency situations, as well as the optimal routes for safe exit from the incident zone or the safest classrooms. Information about the location and number of people in the danger zone is transmitted to the situation center, enabling rapid contact with emergency services. Furthermore, this system is useful in everyday life – it helps users navigate the university building efficiently, find the right classrooms, and plan optimal routes.

In the summer of 2023, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, a decision was made to expand this system to other higher education institutions. This innovation will affect not only universities in the Tomsk region but also educational institutions throughout Russia. The expansion of the system is aimed at improving the quality of education and improving the integration of universities into the national educational environment.

Photo: Tomsk State University

Sergey Shipilov reports that the development and testing of hardware solutions developed by Based on one of the buildings of Tomsk State University (TSU). In addition, the university, together with the government and the Ministry of Emergency Situations, is working to develop regulations for the implementation of this system in higher education institutions.

Labor Market Analysis Service

This is a project of Tomsk State University, created in 2022. The RosNavyk service was developed in collaboration with the Data Diving Academy, a company specializing in data analytics. The project is aimed at developing skills and competencies in the field of data analysis, making it a valuable tool for students and professionals in this field.

The tool is designed to analyze in-demand skills in the labor market. It was initially developed at the university for internal use with the aim of creating relevant educational programs that would contribute to the successful employment of graduates. However, it soon became apparent that similar analytics were of interest to other higher education institutions, confirming the high demand for data on essential competencies in various industries.

The RosNavyka service addresses the pressing issue of educational programs not meeting labor market demands. University graduates often face difficulties finding jobs and require additional skill development. Employers, in turn, spend significant resources on continuing education for new employees. Over the past year, TSU has developed and updated more than ten educational programs, which contributes to increasing the competitiveness of graduates and improving the quality of training in line with employer requirements.

The developers explain that labor market analysis is based on big data collected from four popular job aggregators: hh.ru, SuperJob, Rabota Rossii, and Rabota.ru. Artificial intelligence is used to process the information, and the algorithm's effectiveness is verified by experts from various professional fields. The service regularly breaks down job postings into key competencies of interest to employers, allowing for precise identification of in-demand skills. Data is collected daily, and the service's database currently contains information on more than 17 million vacancies, making it a powerful tool for analyzing current trends in the labor market.

Screenshot: Data-Diving Academy / YouTube

The service allows anyone to learn about the dynamics of demand for various professions in different regions of Russia. Users can learn which competencies are most in demand on the labor market and what working conditions are offered by various companies. This will help job seekers better navigate professional opportunities and make informed career decisions.

Platform for Employment of University Graduates

In 2017, the Fakultetus platform was launched, aimed at improving the work of career centers at universities. By 2020, Russian universities began joining the project. The Fakultetus platform deserves attention, as its concept arose from the academic project of RANEPA student Sergey Vishchipanov. In an interview with Skillbox Media, he shared the story behind the creation of this useful platform. "Fakultetus" helps students and graduates find career opportunities and facilitates interactions between educational institutions and employers.

Fakultetus aims to connect graduates with employers. Universities use the platform to obtain a list of organizations that could be potential employers. This allows educational institutions to effectively recruit students, helping them find suitable vacancies and start their careers.

Screenshot: "Fakultetus" / Skillbox Media

Students choose the Fakultetus platform to find potential employers and subscribe to their updates. The platform allows them to submit job postings through integration with hh.ru and register for company-organized events. Fakultetus creates a convenient environment for interaction between students and employers, helping young professionals find exciting career opportunities.

Classrooms for Hybrid Classes

The Graduate School of Management at St. Petersburg State University (SPbU) developed and implemented a hybrid classroom model at the beginning of the 2022/2023 academic year. Beginning in the 2023/2024 academic year, these classrooms will operate on the MTS Link videoconferencing platform. Hybrid classrooms are specially equipped spaces designed for conducting classes in a hybrid format, with some students participating in person and others connecting remotely. These classrooms are equipped with modern screens, cameras, speakers, and other devices to ensure high-quality interaction between on-site and remote participants. This solution expands access to educational resources and improves learning effectiveness in today's realities.

The new software was developed jointly by MTS Link and the Graduate School of Management at St. Petersburg State University. Detailed equipment requirements for effective hybrid classes were determined directly at the university. The resulting hybrid classroom model will be useful for other educational institutions planning to implement a hybrid learning format. Organizing such a process from scratch can be challenging, and the developed model will help accelerate and simplify the transition.

Alexander Baizarov, Head of EdTech Projects at the Graduate School of Management at St. Petersburg State University, spoke to Skillbox Media about the transition to hybrid learning. Initially, GSOM used Microsoft Teams to organize hybrid classes. However, after the university abandoned this platform, there was no suitable solution on the Russian market. As a result, the decision was made to adapt the MTS Link platform, creating a version that meets specific requirements. It was also important to maintain the ability to use existing equipment for hybrid classrooms based on Microsoft Teams, which was ultimately achieved.

Tatyana Fedotova, Director of Educational Relations at MTS Link, told Skillbox Media about the availability of various extensions to the video conferencing platform designed to solve specific problems. One such solution is software for hybrid classrooms. This development was initially created for universities according to the technical specifications of Saint Petersburg State University. However, these capabilities are now being actively used by other corporate clients, including both educational institutions and commercial companies that need to conduct meetings in a hybrid learning format.

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Hybrid learning is becoming increasingly popular in the educational environment, and many institutions have already successfully implemented this model. To organize effective hybrid learning, it is worth considering several key aspects. First, it is important to create a balanced program that combines elements of both in-person and distance learning. This will allow students to gain a full experience and actively participate in the learning process.

Second, it is necessary to ensure access to modern technologies and platforms for online learning. This includes the use of video conferencing, online courses, and interactive materials. It is also important to train faculty in the use of these technologies so that they can effectively interact with students and maintain their motivation.

Equally important is creating a comfortable educational environment. This may include organizing study spaces and providing technical support. Taking into account student needs, their feedback, and the ability to flexibly choose a learning format will help make the process more effective and enjoyable.

Furthermore, it is worth paying attention to the assessment of learning outcomes. Developing clear criteria and assessment methods will help track student progress and adjust the learning process if necessary.

Thus, successfully organizing hybrid learning requires a comprehensive approach and a willingness to experiment. Educational institutions that have already implemented this model emphasize the importance of adaptability, openness to new methods, and continuous development for both faculty and students.

Alexander Baizarov described the process of using this software. Launching a video broadcast for a hybrid audience requires a special terminal—a touch panel on which the lesson organizer clicks an icon. Importantly, the system provides the ability to separate video streams, which is especially important if there are multiple screens in the classroom. This allows for separate display of the content being demonstrated, ensuring convenience and high-quality information comprehension for all participants.

The project will continue to evolve. According to Tatyana Fedotova, as the number of universities using the solution increases, the development path will be determined in accordance with their needs and requests. Alexander Baizarov noted that there are many ideas for further improving the project. For example, analytics and artificial intelligence technologies could be integrated so that a neural network could provide teachers with recommendations on how to engage students participating in classes remotely. This will improve the quality of education and make the learning process more interactive.

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Hybrid learning format and HyFlex: what is the difference?

The hybrid learning format combines traditional teaching methods with online formats. This allows students to participate in classes both in-class and remotely. This approach provides flexibility, but requires self-discipline and active participation from students.

HyFlex (hybrid-hybrid) is a more advanced model that offers students the opportunity to choose how they want to participate in the course: in-class, online live, or through recorded classes. This provides maximum flexibility and accommodates the various preferences and needs of students.

The main difference between these two formats is the degree of choice offered to students. Hybrid learning emphasizes a combination of formats, while HyFlex offers a completely open choice of participation. While both approaches help adapt the educational process to modern requirements, HyFlex is a more innovative solution, allowing each student to independently determine the most convenient learning method.

A Personalized Learning System Based on Neurotechnology and AI

In 2023, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University (IKBFU) presented an innovative personalized learning system using neurotechnology and artificial intelligence. Researchers emphasize that neurotechnology is essential for generating accurate educational recommendations. Traditional data, such as psychological test results and school grades, do not always allow us to determine the optimal level of workload for each student and identify moments when they experience excessive stress. Therefore, IKBFU scientists, together with Inskultech, developed a prototype recommendation system based on neuroimaging. This system uses electroencephalography (EEG) to read electrical signals from the brain, helping to more accurately tailor the educational process to the individual needs of students.

The system measures psychological and psychophysiological parameters, including cognitive functions such as working memory, focus, and concentration. It also analyzes physiological indicators related to stress levels. These data can be used both individually and in combination. For example, diagnostics can be performed using EEG at the beginning of each school term, while a standard smartwatch can continuously monitor physiological parameters, allowing for the monitoring of students' stress levels. This will allow for timely intervention to reduce stress and maintain students' psychoemotional state at an optimal level.

EEG diagnostics can be effectively supplemented with cognitive training using biofeedback. This method allows for real-time monitoring of cognitive indicators, such as attention span. The process is carried out in a game or multimedia format, where concentration is required to continue playing or viewing an animation. This teaches individuals to control their state and improves cognitive function, which can positively impact their overall psycho-emotional state and productivity.

Based on the collected information, AI algorithms can provide recommendations to teachers, students, and their parents on how to improve the effectiveness of the educational process. These recommendations may include teaching strategies, adaptation of learning materials, and methods of progress assessment, which contribute to more successful acquisition of knowledge and skills.

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Neural interfaces in education: the ability to identify boring moments in the curriculum

Neural interfaces are becoming an important tool in education, allowing for the analysis of student reactions to learning material. These technologies can help determine which aspects are engaging and which, conversely, are boring. This opens up new horizons for adapting curricula and teaching approaches.

Using neural interfaces, teachers can obtain data on student attention and engagement in real time. This allows them to adjust teaching methods and select the most effective strategies for each student. For example, if a particular topic is causing a lack of attention, you can change the approach to explaining it or use additional resources to present the material more engagingly.

Thus, neural interfaces not only help improve the quality of education but also make the learning process more personalized, which promotes deeper knowledge acquisition and the development of critical thinking in students.

A simulator for teachers to teach communication with students' parents

In 2023, Moscow City Pedagogical University presented a virtual simulator for teachers, which, according to Izvestia, is designed to train teachers in effective communication with students' parents. This simulator is aimed at helping teachers maintain constructive dialogue and reduce family dissatisfaction with the functioning of schools. The developers are confident that many problems arise from a lack of communication skills, and this tool will be a useful solution for improving the quality of interaction between the school and parents.

Screenshot: Moscow City Pedagogical University

The simulator provides 20 types of family members, including five characters for preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students. All video clips were filmed with professional actors. The scenarios are based on real-life situations from school life, such as a conversation with the parents of a student who smokes at school and an emotional conversation with a mother who picks up her elementary school student too late after school. This approach allows students to more effectively prepare for interactions with various family members in the context of the educational process. The learning process is organized as follows: the user, acting as a teacher, interacts with a virtual character and chooses one of the suggested response options. The developers implemented three behavioral strategies: constructive, aggressive, and defensive. The virtual interlocutor's response changes depending on the user's chosen behavior. This creates a dynamic learning environment in which users can develop their communication skills and adapt to various situations.

The main advantage of the program is that it provides the user with feedback, explaining where mistakes were made. In addition, moving on to the next cases is possible only after the successful completion of the dialogue in the previous situation. Teachers from Moscow schools can take this simulator as part of their advanced training under the "Safe Communication with Parents. Key Skills" program by registering on the dpmos.ru portal. Specialists and teachers from other regions of Russia should request access by email at SimTsentr@mgpu.ru. Using this program will help improve communication skills and enhance professional training.

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Virtual Programming Tutor

Students from Bauman Moscow State Technical University have developed an innovative platform based on artificial intelligence that effectively helps users fill gaps in their programming knowledge. The platform offers personalized learning paths tailored to the needs of each student, significantly improving the learning process and enabling better results in mastering programming languages and technologies.

An individual learning path is formed in several stages. Initially, the program asks the user to solve a series of problems, after which it analyzes the results, algorithms used, number of attempts, and other significant factors. Based on the collected data, a knowledge map is created, which helps identify gaps in understanding the material. The system then suggests tasks to reinforce the material covered or to master new topics, promoting more effective learning.

Our platform will offer over 7,000 tasks covering over 30 different topics. This allows users to easily find the tasks that will help them improve their programming skills. Currently, the virtual tutor can only analyze C++ code, but in the future, support for Python, Java, C#, and other popular programming languages is planned to be added. Furthermore, the developers intend to introduce game elements, making the learning process more engaging and visual. The platform will also offer training in competitive programming, allowing users to develop their skills in a competitive environment.

According to information from Skillbox Media, one of the founders of the project, Robert Khazhiev, said that this platform is the final project of MSTU students within the framework of the VK Education program, created with the support of the MIPT acceleration program. A pilot version of the platform is currently being tested at Bauman Moscow State Technical University with the goal of entering the B2C market. The product is aimed at students and anyone studying programming. However, the developers are also considering expanding into the B2B segment, including collaboration with higher education institutions.

A program that helps you understand what skills you need to find employment

The JobRoadmap service was developed by students from Bauman Moscow State Technical University as part of the VK Education program. This tool is designed for aspiring IT professionals, helping them determine what skills they need to develop to successfully find a job or an internship. The developers note that young professionals often experience difficulties understanding current employer requirements, finding suitable vacancies, and passing interviews. JobRoadmap analyzes data from the hh.ru website, including vacancies and resumes, to provide information on in-demand skills in the chosen field. Additionally, the service offers assistance in creating cover letters, which significantly simplifies the process of applying for vacancies.

IT skills analysis includes searching by specialty, specific skills, and technology stack. To begin searching by specialty, you must specify your desired IT profession. The user will then be presented with a map of skills most commonly found in current job postings for that specialty. Each skill has its own statistics on mentions in both job postings and resumes. By clicking on a skill, the user receives a detailed description and a list of recommended study materials.

Searching by technology stack is performed as follows: the user enters the technologies they are proficient in, and the most suitable specialties are displayed based on this information. The user can also switch from the specialty map to the skills map for a more complete overview of the chosen profession. This helps to better understand what skills need to be developed to achieve career success.

Analyzing a resume by skills based on the desired specialty makes it possible to determine which skills a specialist has already developed and which ones still need to be mastered. As part of this analysis, a list of useful resources for learning each recommended skill is provided. This will help the user not only improve their resume but also increase their competitiveness in the job market.

The program uses the user's resume and information about the desired vacancy to automatically generate a cover letter. This simplifies the application process and increases the chances of success by providing a personalized approach to each application. A cover letter generated based on the user's data allows for a better presentation of their skills and experience, which match the requirements of a specific position.

Reading is an important aspect of our lives, enriching our inner world and broadening our horizons. Regularly reading books, articles, and other materials helps develop critical thinking, improves vocabulary, and promotes personal growth. It is important to choose a variety of sources of information to gain a more complete understanding of the world. Reading not only entertains but also inspires new ideas and achievements. By immersing ourselves in texts, we discover new horizons and find answers to pressing questions. Don't forget to devote time to reading, as it is one of the most effective ways of self-development and learning.

AI coach for public speaking

Yulia Khlyupina, an ITMO graduate, collaborated with her team to develop a virtual coach for public speaking. This assistant, called Speech Up, uses neural networks created by the startup team to analyze various aspects of speech. It can evaluate a speaker's facial expressions, emotions, and demeanor, as well as identify filler words and cognitive biases, including stereotypes. Speech Up provides users with feedback, helping them improve their public speaking skills and boost their confidence.

The project, reported by the online publication CNews, is the result of Yulia's studies in the Master's program at ITMO's Faculty of Digital Transformation. It was presented as part of the "Startup as a Diploma" program. Last summer, the startup team completed the six-month SberStudent program and completed the final version of the trainer in the fall. Initial tests were conducted among employees of various companies, as well as participants in the NTI and Higher School of Economics accelerators. As a result, the project received a grant of 1 million rubles from Sberbank, where further testing of the system is planned. The startup also attracted the attention of investors and received an offer of 12 million rubles from other funding sources.

The creation of the developer assistant was the result of personal experience related to studies and research. These fields often require participation in seminars, conferences, project presentations, and other events, which can lead to overcoming fear of public speaking. Our assistant offers tools and tips that will not only help improve your presentation skills but also boost your confidence when speaking to an audience, which is essential for a successful career in software development.

To assess your public speaking skills, users must record a video of themselves speaking or upload a pre-made video. Artificial intelligence provides a score based on five key criteria: coherence, clarity of expression, persuasiveness, dynamism, and aggressiveness of delivery. The system analyzes both individual characteristics and their interactions as a whole. Users receive detailed analytics with recommendations for improving their skills. All advice is based on methods developed by psychologists and public speaking professionals. Regular classes allow the system to generate statistics, which helps track progress and reach new heights in public speaking.