Australian University Switches to AI Chatbot for Compulsory Psychology Classes
Macquarie University has replaced face-to-face teaching with an AI chatbot and optional online activities in two compulsory psychology classes.
Macquarie University in Australia has increased the use of artificial intelligence technology in higher education by removing face-to-face classrooms in two compulsory psychology classes, replacing them with an AI chatbot, online quizzes, and optional online tutorials.
AI-Powered Course Implementation
An AI system called "Virtual Peer" has been introduced as part of the weekly learning process in two compulsory psychology classes at Macquarie University.
This programmed tool poses questions to students and guides them through scenario-based exercises.
Course Structure and Student Participation
The university stated that the AI activities are optional and merely support the core learning, which includes online readings, quizzes, and videos.
It was announced that these courses were held in-person during the first semester of this year, and starting in 2027, in-person classes will return in alternate semesters to allow students to choose the format that suits their circumstances.
Student Reactions and Cost Debates
An anonymous student expressed feeling duped after having to enroll in the online option due to issues within the degree structure.
While the fee for each psychology unit for Australian students reached $2,174 in 2026, the cost of a three-year bachelor's degree exceeds $50,000.
Technical Features and Instructor Support
The university noted that the tool was designed in partnership with educators and supervised by professors to make it more personalized compared to general-purpose AI tools.
Paid tutors also continue to operate within the courses, holding optional weekly Zoom sessions for students to consult human instructors.
Increase in AI Usage
The use of the Virtual Peer tool has grown rapidly, answering approximately 80,000 student questions throughout the entirety of 2025 and reaching a similar question count in just the first half of 2026.
It was reported that administrative topics made up a large portion of the answered questions, and surveys indicated that staff and students found the tool valuable or recommended its use.
Trends Among Universities
In response to rising student demand and accompanying criticisms, Macquarie University has become one of a small number of Australian universities, alongside the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney, to systematically integrate AI into education.
Meanwhile, while some institutions such as Central Queensland University test homegrown AI tools, staff unions express concerns regarding job security, increased workload, and the quality of education.