Anja Henke

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Anja Henke is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of artificial intelligence and education, with a primary focus on how the physical embodiment and anthropomorphism of AI tutors shape student learning experiences. Her most-cited work, "Physical embodiment and anthropomorphism of AI tutors and their role in student enjoyment and performance" (2025, 17 citations), has quickly garnered attention for its timely investigation into how student-reported perceptions of sociability, animacy, agency, and disturbance influence on-task enjoyment and academic outcomes. This study provides critical evidence for the evidence-based implementation of AI in classrooms, addressing the growing demand for effective educational technologies. Henke’s contributions are particularly notable for bridging human-computer interaction with pedagogical theory, offering actionable insights for designing AI tutors that enhance both affective engagement and performance. Her work stands out in a rapidly evolving field, where understanding the nuanced role of embodiment and anthropomorphism is key to unlocking the full potential of AI-driven education. As AI integration in learning environments accelerates, Henke’s research remains foundational for educators, technologists, and policymakers seeking to optimize student–AI interactions.