New Claude Learning mode will encourage students to answer questions independently

Anthropic has unveiled Claude for Education — a specialized version of its AI assistant designed specifically for higher education institutions. The initiative aims to help universities develop and implement AI across teaching, learning, and administration while ensuring educators and students actively shape AI's role in society.

At the core of this educational offering is Learning mode, a new feature that fundamentally changes how Claude interacts with students. When activated, the AI assistant guides learners toward solutions rather than providing immediate answers. Claude employs Socratic questioning techniques, asking prompts like "What evidence supports your conclusion?" to deepen understanding and develop critical thinking skills.

"Learning mode helps students develop their independent thinking," Anthropic states in its announcement. The feature works within Claude's Projects system, which allows users to organize their conversations around specific assignments or topics.

Claude for Education is available to all Pro subscribers with an .edu email address. Additionally, Anthropic has established campus-wide partnerships with Northeastern University, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), and Champlain College, providing all students at these institutions with access to Claude.

The company is simultaneously launching two student-focused programs: Claude Campus Ambassadors, which enables students to work directly with Anthropic to launch educational initiatives at their schools, and an API credits program for students building projects with Claude.

Anthropic is also partnering with Instructure, the developer of the Canvas learning management system, to expand access to tools that universities can use to integrate AI into teaching and learning experiences.