Macquarie University swaps in-person psychology classes with AI chatbot for two subjects
News Source
β’Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:00:02 GMT
π° What Happened
Macquarie University has swapped in-person psychology classes for an AI chatbot in two subjects. The chatbot, called 'Virtual Peer', asks students questions and guides them through scenario-based exercises each week. Students also get online quizzes, videos and optional online tutorials.
The university says the AI work is optional and only 'supplements' the core learning. Students are graded on separate research tasks and exams. In-person classes would return in 2027 in alternate semesters so students can pick the format that suits them.
π The Backstory
Both subjects had in-person classes in the first semester of this year. The change is part of a wider trend β Melbourne and Sydney universities have also brought in AI tools.
Critics inside academia say the move will lead to more staff cuts. They warn universities are losing 'everything that makes the job worth doing'. One unnamed student also spoke out. Staff and students both worry about what AI teaching means for the future of university work.
π― Why It Matters
University is meant to be about people learning from people. If chatbots replace teachers, students get less human help β and lecturers' jobs are on the line. Students should know what they are actually paying for.
Macquarie University has swapped in-person psychology classes for an AI chatbot in two subjects. The chatbot, called 'Virtual Peer', asks students questions and guides them through scenario-based exercises each week. Students also get online quizzes, videos and optional online tutorials.
The university says the AI work is optional and only 'supplements' the core learning. Students are graded on separate research tasks and exams. In-person classes would return in 2027 in alternate semesters so students can pick the format that suits them.
Both subjects had in-person classes in the first semester of this year. The change is part of a wider trend β Melbourne and Sydney universities have also brought in AI tools.
Critics inside academia say the move will lead to more staff cuts. They warn universities are losing 'everything that makes the job worth doing'. One unnamed student also spoke out. Staff and students both worry about what AI teaching means for the future of university work.
University is meant to be about people learning from people. If chatbots replace teachers, students get less human help β and lecturers' jobs are on the line. Students should know what they are actually paying for.