In AI‑supported multiple-choice quizzes that already use dynamic hint-gating based on recent hint overuse, does additionally showing learners a simple, running visualization of their unguided‑attempt vs. hint‑assisted success (e.g., two separate progress bars updated in real time) further reduce illusions of learning and improve long‑term retention compared with dynamic gating alone, especially for low‑prior‑knowledge learners?

Answer

It is plausible—but not yet empirically demonstrated—that adding a simple, running visualization of unguided‑attempt versus hint‑assisted success (e.g., two progress bars) on top of dynamic hint-gating will further reduce illusions of learning and yield small additional gains in long‑term retention compared with dynamic gating alone, with the clearest benefits for low‑prior‑knowledge learners who tend to over-rely on hints.

The visualization makes the independence gap continuously visible, reinforcing the signal already provided by dynamic gating. This should modestly improve metacognitive calibration, particularly by countering the tendency to treat hint‑assisted success as equivalent to independent mastery. However, the incremental effects are likely small-to-moderate, because dynamic gating already constrains overuse of hints; and poorly designed displays (too complex, too prominent, or gamified) could backfire by encouraging optimization of the bars rather than genuine understanding.

Overall prediction: dynamic gating + real-time independence visualization > dynamic gating alone for reducing illusions of learning and slightly improving long‑term retention, especially for low‑prior‑knowledge learners with a history of heavy hint use—but the effect size is likely modest and remains unconfirmed without direct experimental tests in this specific setting.