SHARPIST Hackathon 2024: How Teams Used Microsoft Technologies to Build AI-powered test Questionnaire Generators
Read about the event in the Microsoft blog
The recent Sharpist Hackathon around CIS Countries was a vibrant showcase of innovation, collaboration and advanced Microsoft technologies where teams from around the globe gathered to build AI-based products. The hackathon, hosted by MDC Uzbekistan (Microsoft Developers Community in Uzbekistan), ITIC (IT Investments Center), ITSkills and IUT (INHA University in Tashkent), centred on one ambitious goal: using AI to generate test questionnaires based on Microsoft Technologies. Judging focused on several criteria, including question generation algorithms, natural language processing (NLP), personalization, evaluation and skill rating, user interface, integration with other systems and ethical considerations.
The Challenge
The hackathon presented a unique challenge: teams needed to create AI-based systems capable of generating test questionnaires that could adapt to different users' knowledge levels and learning styles. The focus on personalized learning experiences and seamless integration with Microsoft technologies added to the complexity. Participants had to think critically about how their algorithms would understand context, generate relevant questions and deliver an intuitive user interface.
Innovation through Microsoft Technologies
Many teams turned to Microsoft Azure and Cognitive Services for their infrastructure and AI capabilities. Azure's robust cloud-based platform offered the scalability and flexibility needed to build complex AI systems. Cognitive Services, with its suite of pre-built AI tools, provided essential resources for natural language processing and more.
The Elements of Success
The hackathon's judges evaluated entries based on a comprehensive set of criteria. Here's a closer look at the key elements that defined the winning solutions:
- Qustioen Generation Algorithm - Teams had to develop algorithms that could generate coherent and contextually appropriate questions. This required deep machine learning expertise and a strong understanding of natural language processing.
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) - NLP was at the heart of the hackathon. Participants needed to create algorithms capable of understanding human language and generating meaningful questions. Microsoft's AI resources played a pivotal role in this process.
- Personalization - The ability to personalize test questionnaires based on user input was crucial. Teams implemented mechanisms to adapt the generated questions to individual learning styles and skill levels.
- Evaluation and Skill Rating - Solutions had to evaluate user responses and provide meaningful feedback. Teams demonstrated how their systems could rate users' skills and offer guidance for improvement.
- User Interface - A user-friendly interface was essential. The hackathon celebrated solutions that combined powerful AI with an intuitive and accessible design.
- Integration with Other Systems - Integration was another key factor. Participants used APIs and other tools to ensure their solutions could work with existing systems, demonstrating the importance of interoperability.
- Ethical Considerations - Ethical considerations were at the forefront, with teams addressing issues related to data privacy, bias, and fairness. Judges valued solutions that incorporated strong ethical practices.
The Winners
Among 140 teams from CIS countries, 32 teams sorted on the base of requirements.
- 1. Dots 🥇
- 2. Bruh Tech 🥈
- 3. Balmuzdaq 🥉
The winning teams showcased remarkable creativity and technical expertise. Their solutions stood out for their innovative use of Microsoft technologies, seamless integration and commitment to ethical AI practices. The hackathon not only demonstrated the potential of AI in education but also highlighted the importance of collaboration and diversity in tech.
Looking Ahead
As AI continues to evolve, hackathons like this one are crucial for exploring new possibilities and fostering innovation. The Sharpist Hackathon serves as a testament to the transformative power of AI and Microsoft technologies in creating personalized learning experiences. As we look to the future, the lessons learned from this hackathon will undoubtedly inspire further advancements in AI-based educational tools.