Beyond the Text: Exploring student engagement and perceptions of AI generated podcasts and infographics in higher education

This project explores how AI-generated learning materials, such as podcasts and infographics, can support student learning in higher education. Grounded in the principles of inclusive teaching, the study recognises that students engage with content in different ways, and that providing multiple formats (multimodality) can improve access, understanding, and overall learning experiences.

The research focuses on a small cohort of students at a regional Australian University where traditional weekly readings have been supplemented with optional AI-generated podcasts and visual summaries. These resources are designed to give students alternative ways to engage with key ideas, whether by listening, viewing, or reading, supporting a wider range of learning preferences and needs.

The findings from this study will help determine whether AI-generated multimodal resources enhance learning and should be used more widely. They will also inform future teaching practices, supporting educators to design more inclusive, engaging, and flexible learning environments. Ultimately, the project aims to better understand how AI can be used thoughtfully to complement traditional teaching and improve student learning outcomes.

Project Team and Collaborators:
Dr Grace Jefferson, A/Prof Louisa Tomas Engel