ETIH Innovation Awards 2026: spotlight on Best AI Tutor or Personalized Learning Agent
We’re continuing our series exploring each category in the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026, taking a closer look at what the judges expect and what makes a strong submission.
This edition focuses on Best AI Tutor or Personalized Learning Agent, a category celebrating tools that deliver tailored, one-to-one support through artificial intelligence. Entries must demonstrate how the AI adapts to individual learners, the outcomes achieved, and how the solution scales across different environments.
What this category covers
This category highlights AI tutors and personalized learning agents designed to support learners through adaptive instruction, feedback, and targeted guidance. Eligible entries include tools used in schools, higher education, workforce development, and lifelong learning.
Entries may include solutions for:
personalized, adaptive learning pathways
AI tutoring and one-to-one instructional support
automated practice, feedback, and skill development
conversational learning agents and virtual mentors
predictive analytics for progression and intervention
multilingual or accessibility-focused tutoring
integration with curriculum, LMS platforms, or content systems
real-time insights that help educators support individual learners
Solutions must demonstrate meaningful use and measurable impact.
What judges will look for
Judges will assess whether the AI tool provides effective personalization and leads to measurable improvements for learners.
Entries should address:
the learner needs or challenges the AI tutor is designed to solve
how the tool adapts instruction, pacing, difficulty, or feedback
evidence of improved outcomes such as attainment, confidence, accuracy, or engagement
clarity around the AI model’s decisions, feedback, or recommendations
scalability across subjects, institutions, or learner groups
user feedback from students, educators, or training providers
Strong submissions will combine clear adaptive logic with strong evidence of learning gains.
How to strengthen your submission
Entrants are encouraged to explain the research, pedagogy, and data models underpinning the AI tutor. Judges value transparency around how personalization works and how it supports learners with different needs.
Submissions will be strengthened by:
measurable data showing improvements in learning or efficiency
examples of how educators use insights from the tool
clear explanation of safeguards, accuracy checks, and responsible AI practices
documented feedback from students, educators, or partners
Illustrating how the tool fits into broader instructional workflows or complements teacher practice will also help demonstrate real-world value.
Why enter this category
Best AI Tutor or Personalized Learning Agent offers organizations an opportunity to showcase innovation in one of the fastest-growing areas of EdTech. Shortlisted entries will be featured on edtechinnovationhub.com and across ETIH channels, reaching institutions, investors, and policymakers.
Entries are reviewed by an independent panel with expertise in AI, pedagogy, learning science, and EdTech. Many entrants find the submission process strengthens their impact story and clarity around responsible AI.
How to enter
To enter, visit the categories page, select Best AI Tutor or Personalized Learning Agent, and complete the form. The entry deadline is Friday, 27 March 2026. The shortlist will be announced on Tuesday, 2 April 2026, and winners will be revealed on Monday, 27 April 2026.
Entry costs £80 per submission, or £150 for two or more entries. Payment can be made via our website. Once your entry form and payment have been received, confirmation will be sent by email.
For questions or further information, please contact Director of Content Emma Thompson.
