TSConnect: An Enhanced MOOC Platform for Bridging Communication Gaps Between Instructors and Students in Light of the Curse of Knowledge

Qianyu Liu; Xinran Li; Xiaocong Du; Quan Li

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arXiv · 2503.09062

TSConnect: An Enhanced MOOC Platform for Bridging Communication Gaps Between Instructors and Students in Light of the Curse of Knowledge

Qianyu Liu·Xinran Li·Xiaocong Du·Quan Li

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Abstract

Knowledge dissemination in educational settings is profoundly influenced by the curse of knowledge, a cognitive bias that causes experts to underestimate the challenges faced by learners due to their own in-depth understanding of the subject. This bias can hinder effective knowledge transfer and pedagogical effectiveness, and may be exacerbated by inadequate instructor-student communication. To encourage more effective feedback and promote empathy, we introduce TSConnect, a bias-aware, adaptable interactive MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) learning system, informed by a need-finding survey involving 129 students and 6 instructors. TSConnect integrates instructors, students, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into a cohesive platform, facilitating diverse and targeted communication channels while addressing previously overlooked information needs. A notable feature is its dynamic knowledge graph, which enhances learning support and fosters a more interconnected educational experience. We conducted a between-subjects user study with 30 students comparing TSConnect to a baseline system. Results indicate that TSConnect significantly encourages students to provide more feedback to instructors. Additionally, interviews with 4 instructors reveal insights into how they interpret and respond to this feedback, potentially leading to improvements in teaching strategies and the development of broader pedagogical skills.

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Qianyu Liu, Xinran Li, Xiaocong Du, Quan Li. 2025-03-12. TSConnect: An Enhanced MOOC Platform for Bridging Communication Gaps Between Instructors and Students in Light of the Curse of Knowledge. https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.09062

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