Aristeidou, Maria, Maciel Tessarolo, F. and Coughlan, Tim 2024. Student use of ChatGPT to prepare for assessments. PVC-S Challenge Study 4 Report. Institute of Educational Technology (IET), The Open University.
| Title | Student use of ChatGPT to prepare for assessments. PVC-S Challenge Study 4 Report |
|---|---|
| Authors | Aristeidou, Maria, Maciel Tessarolo, F. and Coughlan, Tim |
| Abstract | This study investigated the potential of Generative AI (GenAI) to support Open University students during assignment preparation, particularly those at Level 1 and identified as being at risk of failing or withdrawing. Risk indicators included credit history, declared disabilities, and socioeconomic disadvantage. Focused on the role of ChatGPT as a freely available GenAI tool, the project explored how students engaged with AI to improve their academic writing, understand complex ideas, and navigate linguistic challenges. While participation was limited, the study offered valuable insights into how GenAI might enhance the study experience, as well as raising important ethical, technical, and academic integrity considerations. Conducted by the Quality Enhancement and Innovation (QEI) team at the Institute of Educational Technology (IET), the activity also piloted new processes for providing students with GenAI access in a safe, ethical, and policy-aligned manner. These efforts lay the groundwork for future projects and for comparison with institutionally managed tools such as AIDA, informing both immediate practice and long-term strategic planning around AI use in distance education. |
| Keywords | Generative AI |
| ChatGPT | |
| Assessment Support | |
| Distance Learning | |
| At-Risk Students | |
| Academic Writing | |
| Ethical Use of AI | |
| Year | 2024 |
| Publisher | Institute of Educational Technology (IET), The Open University |
| Publication dates | |
| Published | Dec 2024 |