Realise rolls out AI feedback tool to increase journal submissions and reduce trainer workload

Realise Assist is now in use across apprenticeship and diploma programs following a three-month build

UK based apprenticeship and adult education providers Realise has launched Realise Assist, an AI-powered journal support tool built to improve the quality and quantity of learner journal entries.

The system, developed with technology agency Audacia, provides real-time feedback to trainers who can then review and personalize suggestions before passing them to the learner.

Feedback system integrates with trainer review process

Realise Assist analyzes learner journal submissions using AI to assess structure, relevance, and clarity. The tool provides trainers with instant guidance on how entries can be improved, with suggestions such as expanding on practical application, exploring observed experiences, or refining sentence structure and grammar.

Caroline Williams, project director at Realise, says, “Keeping a detailed journal can be a significant stumbling block for learners embarking on either an apprenticeship or a long diploma – particularly if it’s not something they have done before. Realise Assist is an excellent tool that is really helping both our learners and our trainers.”

Trainers can edit or expand on the AI-generated suggestions before sharing them with learners, allowing the system to augment, rather than replace, human oversight.

Usage and engagement rise after rollout

Since the app’s launch in November 2023, weekly journal entries have increased from 62 to over 1,000. The tool has also reduced trainer admin time, freeing up capacity for one-to-one support.

Williams explains that the AI often helps frame next steps for learners. “The feedback the AI produces is really useful. For example, the AI may acknowledge the overall theme and strengths of the journal entry but suggest the learner reflects in greater depth on how the new knowledge could be implemented into their jobs, bringing theory into practice,” she says.

In a recent internal survey, 65 percent of learners reported that journal feedback is now better or much better than before. Respondents cited “clear next steps,” “support for language skills,” and “more detailed and individualized responses” as key improvements.

Curriculum integration and language updates in progress

Realise has loaded its bespoke curriculums into the system so the feedback learners receive is aligned to their specific course requirements. The tool continues to evolve, with the team refining how language is used. For instance, after detecting repeated AI use of the word “kids” in early years training, Realise updated the system to use the correct term “children.”

The platform is accessible via PC, tablet, or smartphone and is restricted to Realise users through secure login.

Williams says development will continue. “Prior to Realise Assist, trainers would spend around 20 to 30 minutes with learners on each occasion offering manual feedback on journal entries. Now feedback is provided instantly, clearly and consistently, allowing trainers to be more readily available to learners for one-to-one guidance,” she says.