2024 RTP round - Harnessing Generative Artificial Intelligence as Personal Learning Assistant: Vignettes of high school students’ learning experiences

Status: Closed

Applications open: 7/07/2023
Applications close: 25/08/2023

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About this scholarship
Description/Applicant information

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology presents new possibilities for enhancing educational practices. As part of the ever-increasing digitisation of society, AI’s capability to automate tasks, process large quantities of data, and provide predictive insights will increasingly revolutionise various aspects of our daily lives (Yang, 2022). Generative AI, such as ChatGPT, offers a unique opportunity to support students in their learning journey by providing personalised assistance, answering questions, explaining complex concepts, and offering context-specific study resources. Anecdotally, we know that students are using ChatGPT in different ways as a personal learning assistant. How they are using it however, remains an important research gap. This study seeks to investigate the applications and effects of harnessing generative AI, specifically large language models, as a personal learning assistant for students. 

The overall aim of the study is to gain a deeper understanding of the different ways students are using ChatGPT as a personal learning assistant in years 7-12 in Western Australian schools. The intention is to explore students' perceptions and experiences of utilising generative AI as a personalized support system, examining students’ perceptions about its impact on their learning journeys. As part of this exploration, the researchers hope to identify challenges associated with integrating generative AI as a personal learning assistant and provide recommendations for educators to support their use. 

1. To investigate high school students' perceptions and experiences of using ChatGPT as a personal learning assistant, examining the various ways in which it is utilised and learner perceptions about its impact on their learning journeys.
2. To identify and analyse the challenges associated with integrating generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, as a personal learning assistant in educational settings.
3. To provide practical recommendations for educators on effectively integrating ChatGPT as a personal learning assistant, addressing the identified challenges and promoting its potential benefits in supporting personalised learning. 

The significance of this research is multifaceted and holds relevance for both the field of education and the application of artificial intelligence in learning environments. By delving into the exploration of ChatGPT as a personal learning assistant for students, this study contributes to advancing our understanding of the potential benefits and challenges associated with leveraging AI technology in education. Ultimately, the findings of this research may pave the way for innovative and effective educational approaches that leverage the power of AI to enhance the learning experience and outcomes for students. 

Student type

• Future Students

Faculty

• Faculty of Humanities

Course type

• Higher Degree by Research

Citizenship

• Australian Citizen
• Australian Permanent Resident
• New Zealand Citizen
• Permanent Humanitarian Visa
• International Student

Scholarship base

• Merit Based

Value

The annual scholarship package (stipend and tuition fees) is approx. $60,000 - $70,000 p.a.

Successful HDR applicants for admission will receive a 100% fee offset for up to 4 years, stipend scholarships at the 2023 RTP rate valued at $32,250 p.a. for up to a maximum of 3 years, with a possible 6 month completion scholarship. Applicants are determined via a competitive selection process and will be notified of the scholarship outcome in November 2023. 

For detailed information, visit: Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships | Curtin University, Perth, Australia.

Scholarship Details
Maximum number awarded

1

Eligible courses

All applicable HDR courses

Eligibility criteria

The successful applicant is expected to meet the following criteria:
1. Strong interpersonal communication and troubleshooting skills;
2. A team player who also takes initiative in project planning;
3. Creative, goal-oriented and attentive to details;
4. Independent emergent researcher who also works towards the project direction;
5. Specialised in a combination of areas including fields related to educational technology and artificial intelligence,
6. Experienced with one or more of the following research approaches: qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, case study, action research
7. Experienced (preferably) with publishing in peer-reviewed journals. 

Application process

If this project excites you, and your research skills and experience are a good fit for this specific project, you should contact the Project Lead (listed below in the enquires section) via the Expression of Interest (EOI) form.  ahead of the closing date.

This project has identified a preferred candidate and is no longer available.  Please review remaining scholarships projects .

Enrolment Requirements

Eligible to enrol in a Higher Degree by Research Course at Curtin University by March 2024.

Recipients must complete their milestone 1 within 6 month of enrolment and remain enrolled on a full-time basis for the duration of the scholarship.

Enquiries

To enquire about this project opportunity that includes a scholarship application, contact the Project lead, Grant Cooper via the EOI form  above.

 

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