Macquarie University swaps in-person psychology classes with AI chatbot for two subjects
Summary
Macquarie University in Australia has replaced in-person psychology classes with an AI chatbot called “Virtual Peer” for two subjects. The AI chatbot is used alongside online quizzes and optional tutorials to help students learn, while assessments still rely on research tasks and exams.Key Facts
- The AI chatbot Virtual Peer asks students questions and guides them through exercises.
- The AI activities are optional and add to regular online materials like readings and videos.
- Neither AI activities nor core online activities are mandatory for students.
- In-person psychology classes will return in 2027, alternating semesters with online options.
- Psychology subjects cost about $2,174 each for Australian students in 2026.
- Professors upload and check the content Virtual Peer uses to make it more accurate.
- The university monitors student chats on the AI platform.
- Virtual Peer answered nearly 80,000 student questions in 2025 and almost as many in the first half of 2026.
- Some students feel the AI approach reduces personal interaction with teachers.
- Other Australian universities, like University of Melbourne and University of Sydney, are also incorporating AI in teaching.
- Experts warn that fully replacing human teaching with AI may reduce student engagement.
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