Ashok Goel

Ashok Goel is a Professor of Computer Science and Human-Centered Computing at Georgia Institute of Technology and Chief Scientist at Georgia Tech’s Center for 21st Century Universities (C21U). He also serves as Executive Director of the NSF-funded National AI Institute for Adult Learning and Online Education (AI-ALOE). His research spans cognitive systems, artificial intelligence, and education, with a focus on computational design, creativity, and AI-driven educational technologies.

• Professor, School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Tech
• Chief Scientist, Center for 21st Century Universities
• Executive Director, NSF’s National AI Institute for Adult Learning and Online Education

Goel’s research explores the intersection of AI and cognitive science, particularly in computational design, creativity, and biologically inspired design. His recent work emphasizes AI in education, including virtual teaching assistants like Jill Watson (powered by ChatGPT) and frameworks for scalable, human-centric AI-augmented learning. He investigates explainable AI, multimodal educational systems, and bidirectional feedback mechanisms to enhance personalized learning experiences.

Award highlights include:

• AAAI’s Outstanding AI Educator Award
• Fellow of AAAI and Cognitive Science Society
• University System of Georgia Regent’s Award for Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

Goel leads the Design Intelligence Laboratory at Georgia Tech, mentoring a team of graduate and undergraduate researchers. His contributions to AI education include pioneering Georgia Tech’s Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) program and developing blended learning frameworks. He also co-founded the AI-based educational startup Beyond Question (LLC) in 2020.