Danielle R. Thomas

Danielle R. Thomas is a Systems Scientist at the Human-Computer Interaction Institute within Carnegie Mellon University. She leads the PLUS — Personalized Learning Squared project, a hybrid human-AI tutoring initiative, and serves as Director of Research to Practice at The National Tutoring Observatory.

Her research focuses on:

• Hybrid human-AI tutoring systems
• Scalable tutor assessment using LLMs
• Equity in AI-driven education
• AI-enhanced teacher training
• Supporting marginalized learners

Recent publications highlight advancements in:

• LLM-based feedback mechanisms
• Automated tutor behavior analysis
• Redesigning assessment frameworks
• Addressing bias in AI ground truth data
• Expanding access for underrepresented groups

Scientific recognition includes:

• Best Demo Award at AIED2023
• Google DeepMind funding (2025) for AI tutor assessment

She collaborates with Carnegie Learning, Inc. and Stanford University, and actively contributes to:

• Workshops on AI ethics in education
• International conferences (AIED, ECTEL, LAK)
• Public outreach via NBC News and Snapchat