The Primer Initiative: A Moonshot for Education
Wharton’s Generative AI Labs (GAIL) empowers educators and advances learning through innovative generative AI applications grounded in rigorous research. Positioned at the critical intersection of AI advancement and evidence-based educational design, we develop transformative solutions for teaching and learning.
We have been designing educational simulations for over a decade, and our approach is grounded in world-class subject matter expertise, proven pedagogical principles, generative AI expertise, and innovative game design. These combine to give us unique insights into how to ambitiously combine generative AI and the science of learning to create open source tools that empower educators. Our moonshot initiative, Primer, aims to give every educator the tools to build simulations, tutors, and other adaptive learning experiences that blend narrative, game design, and sound learning science—no technical expertise required.
Follow our journey as we develop Primer and openly share our process and learnings along the way.
The Studio
We’re excited to announce The Studio, a year-long program where students build real AI projects. Not demos. Not presentations. Working prototypes to show what is now possible.
The Pincus AI Lab for Organizational Innovation
This initiative, generously funded by Marc J. Pincus, W’88, tackles the future of AI and work through research and active tool development. We investigate fundamental questions—such as how organizations should be rebuilt around AI and how to cultivate human-AI “co-intelligence”—while simultaneously building practical AI advisors and systems. This integrated approach ensures our research informs tangible solutions designed to help entrepreneurs and managers succeed, and our development work grounds our research in real-world challenges.
Prompt Library
Our growing library of prompts addresses a range of educational and professional development needs. Educators and trainers can confidently incorporate these resources, knowing they’re built on sound instructional principles and carefully tested for ease of use.
Our Research
GAIL produces rigorous scientific research that advances our understanding of large language models through systematic testing and analysis. We examine critical questions that include AI performance, benchmarking methodologies, and implementation strategies. Our goal is to contribute valuable insights to the scientific community working on current and future AI systems.
Spotlight: Research
“Call Me A Jerk: Persuading AI to Comply with Objectionable Requests”
AI systems exhibit remarkably human-like responses to social persuasion, a window into the parahuman psychology of large language models.
More Research from Our Community
Against “Brain Damage” AI can help, or hurt, our thinking
Using AI Right Now: A Quick Guide Which AIs to use, and how to use them
The recent history of AI in 32 otters Three years of progress as shown by marine mammals
We explore the possibilities of generative AI every day.
GAIL blends academic rigor with hands-on experience in educational technology. Our team’s established background in designing digital learning experiences provides valuable insights into AI’s potential for enhancing both formal education and professional development. We create solutions that balance pedagogical principles with technological innovation—approaching each challenge with both theoretical understanding and practical wisdom.
If you have questions about our work, please contact us at GenAILab@wharton.upenn.edu.