TLSS virtual assistant
We're thrilled to introduce our AI-driven virtual assistant (launched April 4, 2024), explicitly designed for uOttawa faculty members. As part of our commitment to improving the user experience on our website, we are embarking on a one-year trial period to test the capabilities and effectiveness of this innovative tool.
Throughout this trial period, we'll closely monitor the virtual assistant's performance, analyzing factors such as the response accuracy and the usage frequency. This data will enable us to assess the impact and utility of the virtual assistant within the TLSS framework.
After the trial period, we'll conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the virtual assistant's effectiveness in meeting the needs of uOttawa teaching personnel. Based on results and feedback gathered, we'll make informed decisions about whether to continue, modify, or expand the use of the virtual assistant.
Your active participation and feedback during this trial period are crucial as we strive to enhance our teaching and learning support services. Your insights and experiences will play a significant role in shaping the future of this innovative tool.
We invite you to send your comments and questions to saea-tlss@uOttawa.ca.
The TLSS virtual assistant is fully compliant with the University of Ottawa's Privacy Statement. We understand the importance of data security and privacy and assure you that your information is handled carefully and respectfully.
What is it exactly?
Designed specifically for faculty members and Teaching Assistants like you, the TLSS virtual assistant simplifies and streamlines access to valuable pedagogical materials and support services. Think of it as your personalized shepherd or guide to the most relevant training material, best practices, activities and contacts—as curated by uOttawa's pedagogical and educational technology specialists!
As an educator, you understand the importance of staying on top of the latest tools and techniques to nourish your teaching practices. Yet navigating the vast array of available resources can be overwhelming and time-consuming. That's where our virtual assistant comes in—to provide tailor-made recommendations and assistance, all within a convenient chat interface.
Whether you need quick answers, resources, or guidance on teaching and learning strategies within the TLSS framework, our virtual assistant is here to help streamline your experience and support your academic endeavors at the University of Ottawa.
From interactive workshops to online tutorials, from classroom tools to pedagogical research, the TLSS virtual assistant is dedicated to helping you excel in your role as an educator. Let us simplify your journey towards effective teaching and learning, so you can focus on what truly matters – inspiring and empowering your students.
As with any AI-driven technology, it's important to note that the virtual assistant has its limitations. While it's equipped with advanced algorithms and natural language processing capabilities, it's primarily tailored to assist with queries and tasks related specifically to TLSS content.
Please keep in mind that while our virtual assistant strives to provide accurate and helpful responses, there may be instances where it's unable to address more complex inquiries or topics beyond the scope of TLSS. In such cases, we encourage reaching out to the appropriate department or individual for personalized assistance.
Boost your journey towards pedagogical excellence — unlock a wealth of resources and support tailored specifically for you with the TLSS virtual assistant.
How to use the TLSS virtual assistant
To start using the virtual assistant, click on the garnet chat icon located on the bottom right-hand corner of every page of the TLSS website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The TLSS virtual assistant is powered by an application called Wonderchat. To be fully transparent with our users, we have provided below a wealth of details and information about this application.
What is Wonderchat?
Wonderchat is an tool that allows us to create a virtual assistant in just a few minutes. It’s designed to enhance customer service by significantly boosting response speed.
The platform uses AI technology to build a virtual assistant from our webpage content, PDF files/guides/documentation, and other contextual information. This means it can provide accurate and helpful responses to user queries based on the information in our existing resources.
One of Wonderchat's key benefits is its ability to improve users' search experience. It exploits AI-powered natural language to help users access key information quickly and easily without the need to navigate through complex knowledge bases.
In addition to improving the user experience, Wonderchat can also provide valuable insights into areas where information may be missing or search results incomplete. This identify gaps in our knowledge base and make necessary improvements.
How does Wonderchat work?
- Linking to website or PDF Files: We start by fuelling the AI with our website web content and uploading our PDF files. Wonderchat uses this information to build our virtual assistant.
- AI-powered natural language search: Wonderchat uses AI technology (ChatGPT-4 in our case) to enable natural language searching. This means that users can ask questions in their own words, and the virtual assistant will understand and provide relevant responses.
- Boosting response speed: Wonderchat can significantly improve user response speed by automating responses to common queries, which improves the user experience.
- Identifying areas for improvement: Wonderchat then highlights areas in our website content where information may be missing or search results could be improved. This helps us continually improve our content and ensure it meets faculty members' needs.
In essence, Wonderchat is a tool that uses AI to transform our existing resources into responsive virtual assistant. It’s efficient, easy to use and offers significant benefit to you, our users.
