Quest: Query-centric Data Synthesis Approach for Long-context Scaling of Large Language Model

Large language models, initially pre-trained with a limited context length, can better handle longer texts by continuing training on a corpus with extended contexts. However, obtaining effective long-context data is challenging due to the scarcity and uneven distribution of long documents across different domains. To address this issue, we propose a Query-centric data synthesis method, abbreviated as Quest. Quest is an interpretable method based on the observation that documents retrieved by similar queries are relevant but low-redundant, thus well-suited for synthesizing long-context data. The method is also scalable and capable of constructing large amounts of long-context data. Using Quest, we synthesize a long-context dataset up to 128k context length, significantly outperforming other data synthesis methods on multiple long-context benchmark datasets. In addition, we further verify that the Quest method is predictable through scaling law experiments, making it a reliable solution for advancing long-context models.

From Automation to Augmentation: Large Language Models Elevating Essay Scoring Landscape

Receiving immediate and personalized feedback is crucial for second-language learners, and Automated Essay Scoring (AES) systems are a vital resource when human instructors are unavailable. This study investigates the effectiveness of Large Language Models (LLMs), specifically GPT-4 and fine-tuned GPT-3.5, as tools for AES. Our comprehensive set of experiments, conducted on both public and private datasets, highlights the remarkable advantages of LLM-based AES systems. They include superior accuracy, consistency, generalizability, and interpretability, with fine-tuned GPT-3.5 surpassing traditional grading models. Additionally, we undertake LLM-assisted human evaluation experiments involving both novice and expert graders. One pivotal discovery is that LLMs not only automate the grading process but also enhance the performance of human graders. Novice graders when provided with feedback generated by LLMs, achieve a level of accuracy on par with experts, while experts become more efficient and maintain greater consistency in their assessments. These results underscore the potential of LLMs in educational technology, paving the way for effective collaboration between humans and AI, ultimately leading to transformative learning experiences through AI-generated feedback.