What is it?

PrairieLearn is an online problem-driven learning system for creating homework and tests. It allows questions to be written using arbitrary HTML, JavaScript, and Python, thus enabling very powerful questions that can randomize and auto-grade themselves and can access client- and server-side libraries to handle tasks such as graphical drawing, symbolic algebra, and student code compilation and execution.

What is its purpose?

PrairieLearn serves as an online educational platform specifically designed to enhance teaching and learning experiences, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It is tailored for generating, delivering, and grading assessments, quizzes, and interactive educational content in academic settings, particularly in higher education.

How do I use it?

As the PrairieLearn source code is publicly available, it's possible to run PrairieLearn on the university infrastructure. Running a single instance of the PrairieLearn server may be appropriate for tens or hundreds of total users. Additionally, PrairieLearn offers a hosting service for a fee, providing an alternative for institutions that prefer a managed hosting solution. After acquiring the tool, instructors create accounts, set up classes, create assessments, and invite students to participate. 

Why would I use it?

PrairieLearn enables instructors to create dynamic educational resources through code and generate infinite question variants with automatic grading and real-time feedback. In addition, PrairieLearn can help students master content by encouraging them to attempt various versions of the same question until they achieve proficiency.