Chatbots are one of the most popular AI tools and are increasingly being used to support teaching and learning in our technological world where there is a heavy reliance placed on online learning. In addition to improving student engagement and support, chatbot tools have the ability to greatly reduce the administrative workload of teaching staff, who can instead focus on research and curriculum development. While prior studies examining the chatbot tools in an education context have focused on chatbots as a learning aid and types of chatbots and development technology, the focus of this study is on chatbots as a tool to enhance student experience.

We believe that the instantaneous responses provided by the chatbot system on various unit-related administrative aspects are likely to enhance the motivation of students, which can further heighten their learning interests and performance. We, therefore, use the self-determination theory as the underlying theory for our study.

Cesl – Our Chatbot to encourage self-regulated learning is up and running now and being evaluated by student groups. We will use the feedback and insights from this real-world testing to inform the next round of development.

Project Team:

A/Prof Anna Bunn
Dr Abhijeet Singh
A/Prof Nik Thompson
Craig Sims
Prof Rachel Sheffield
Dr Li Sha
Jack Moursonidis