Macquarie University in Australia replaces in-person classes for two mandatory psychology subjects with an AI chatbot and online learning tools, according to reporting from multiple outlets. The university’s “Virtual Peer” is built into weekly learning, where it asks students questions and guides them through scenario-based exercises, alongside online quizzes and optional online tutorials.
The move is presented in the context of broader adoption of artificial intelligence in university teaching. Both sources note that the change is designed to take on some teaching responsibilities rather than simply provide supplemental material. While the university’s approach is aligned with wider technological trends in higher education, it also draws criticism from academics.
Critics highlighted in the articles say the shift toward AI-led instruction may contribute to staffing pressures and could undermine aspects of teaching they consider central to the job. One outlet specifically warns that using AI for teaching may create “damaging issues,” reflecting concerns about educational quality and the impact on staff roles.
Overall, the sources agree on the key change at Macquarie University and the presence of academic criticism, but they differ mainly in the emphasis of those critiques.
