Technology
Macquarie University replaces in-person psychology classes with AI chatbot for two subjects
The university's use of its 'Virtual Peer' tool has raised concerns among students and academics over job security and educational quality.
The short version
- Macquarie University in Australia has swapped in-person classes in two mandatory undergraduate psychology units with an AI chatbot, online activities, and optional Zoom tutorials.
- The decision has sparked backlash from student representatives and academics who argue that replacing human-led discussions with AI diminishes the value of tuition and risks staff jobs.
- Similar integrations of generative AI tools at other Australian universities are facing pushback from staff unions demanding protections against AI-driven workloads.
Key facts
- Macquarie University introduced its AI chatbot, "Virtual Peer," to lead weekly learning activities in two mandatory psychology units, replacing previous in-person classes.[The Guardian]
- The university stated that the AI-led activities are optional and supplement core learning materials, and that in-person options will return in alternate semesters starting in 2027.[The Guardian]
- In 2026, individual psychology subjects cost Australian commonwealth-supported students $2,174, while a full three-year undergraduate degree costs over $50,000.[The Guardian]
- The Virtual Peer tool answered close to 80,000 student questions in 2025, and nearly as many during the first six months of 2026 alone.[The Guardian]
- Other institutions, including Central Queensland University and the University of Sydney, are also piloting or deploying generative AI teaching platforms.[The Guardian]
- The National Tertiary Education Union is campaigning for workplace agreements that protect university staff from job losses and increased workloads related to AI adoption.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- While academic union leaders express concern that the technology will be used as a cost-cutting measure to replace human staff, university representatives argue that AI tools are meant to assist educators and will not replace human accountability and relationships.[The Guardian]