Macquarie University replaces in-person teaching with AI chatbot for two psychology units

Macquarie University has introduced an AI‑driven “Virtual Peer” to replace traditional face‑to‑face teaching in two compulsory psychology units, integrating the chatbot into weekly coursework alongside online quizzes and optional virtual tutorials. The system prompts students with questions and guides them through scenario‑based exercises, marking a shift toward greater reliance on digital tools for core curriculum delivery.

The move reflects a broader trend in Australian higher education toward automating instructional tasks, prompting criticism from some academics who warn that expanding AI roles may accelerate staff reductions and erode elements of the profession that contribute to job satisfaction. University officials contend that the technology enhances learning flexibility, while observers note the ongoing debate over balancing efficiency with the preservation of traditional teaching practices.