Author: Steve Alcorn
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The Hidden Cost of AI Shortcuts in Learning
by BrainStream CEO Steve Alcorn In a provocative column from The New York Times (July 3, 2025), David Brooks highlights the growing cognitive risks of over-relying on AI tools for thinking and writing. Citing new research by M.I.T.’s Nataliya Kosmyna, Brooks explores how students who used large language models (LLMs) to generate essays retained less knowledge, showed…
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Data Protection and Maintenance: Why It Matters
in Programmingby BrainStream Chief User Experience Officer Yung-Wen Cheng In BrainStream, protecting user data and maintaining database integrity are not just technical concerns—they are core responsibilities. We handle sensitive information such as student profiles, academic progress, login credentials, and sometimes even payment data. Ensuring that this information is secure, well-managed, and retained appropriately is crucial for…
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The Impact of Colors on Learning App Design
in Programmingby BrainStream Chief User Experience Officer Yung-Wen Cheng Color plays a powerful yet often underestimated role in BrainStream’s app design. Thoughtful application of color theory can significantly influence how students interact with and absorb information on a learning platform. When used strategically, colors can enhance focus, reduce eye strain, guide user attention, and even impact…
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The Importance of Databases and Data Transfer
in Programmingby BrainStream Chief User Experience Officer Yung-Wen Cheng Behind every successful learning app lies a well-structured and secure database system. For students, seamless performance, reliable data access, and personalized experiences depend heavily on how efficiently data is stored, retrieved, and transferred. Whether it’s tracking user progress, storing quiz results, or delivering adaptive content, the role…
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How UX Affects Students’ Learning Process
in Programmingby BrainStream Chief User Experience Officer Yung-Wen Cheng User experience (UX) design is a foundational element in the success of any educational application. For students, a well-designed UX can significantly influence their ability to stay engaged, comprehend material, and maintain motivation throughout their learning journey. When learning tools are intuitive and responsive, students can focus…
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The Role of UI/UX Design in Student Learning Apps
in Programmingby BrainStream Chief User Experience Officer Yung-Wen Cheng Effective UI/UX design is essential in the development of educational applications, particularly for college students navigating demanding academic schedules. A well-designed interface not only enhances usability but also supports sustained engagement and improved learning outcomes. For users, clarity and simplicity are critical. A clean layout, intuitive navigation,…
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BrainStream: The Competitive Edge of Measurable Learning
by BrainStream CEO Steve Alcorn In an era where free AI tools like ChatGPT tempt students to shortcut genuine learning, BrainStream stands apart by turning AI from a threat into an accountability ally. Unlike generic AI tutors that freely roam the internet for answers, BrainStream restricts itself to your school’s chosen course materials—ensuring students truly…
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User Acquisition & Retention: The Next Battlefront in AI Education
by Chief Financial Officer Chia-Hua (Phyllis) Chen As AI continues to reshape the educational landscape, user acquisition and retention have become the new strategic battlegrounds for AI-driven EdTech startups. In 2025, the average customer acquisition cost (CAC) for education platforms has surged by 19% YoY, now averaging $42 per user. This uptick is largely due…
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AI Marketing Strategies
by BrainStream Chief Marketing Officer Ya-Hui (Laura) Kao In “AI Content Marketing 101: Strategies from Someone Who Lives It,” Mateusz Makosiewicz of Ahrefs delves into the transformative role of AI in content marketing. Drawing from personal experience, Makosiewicz illustrates how AI serves as an indispensable tool, enhancing productivity and creativity. He emphasizes that AI is…
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Why B.C. Is the Ideal Place for a Tech Startup
by Chief Operating Officer Tzu-Ying (Kimberley) Chen British Columbia has quietly transformed into a powerhouse for tech innovation — and the data proves it. The province’s tech sector now employs nearly six times more people than its traditional natural resources industries, with wages 75% higher than the provincial average. In fact, tech accounts for at…