This project aims to assess the impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, on teaching and learning processes in Higher Education. The main objectives are to evaluate the effectiveness of the tool in real classroom settings, explore different adoption scenarios for efficient pedagogical integration, measure student engagement and motivation when using AI, and to compile a set of practical recommendations based on the study’s findings and international best practices.
The project follows a rigorous methodological approach, based on a Field Experiment that compares two distinct groups: an experimental group, where ChatGPT is actively integrated into pedagogical practices, and a control group, where traditional teaching methods are maintained.
The research is conducted across different institutional and curricular contexts, ensuring a diverse range of scenarios within higher education in Portugal.
The study is developed in three main phases:
Preparation Phase: Analysis of international case studies on the use of GenAI in education and development of a strategy adapted to the national context. Templates and usage guides were also created to ensure consistency and clarity in the integration of ChatGPT across different curricular units;
Integration Phase: Practical application of ChatGPT in the classroom, involving various types of use (practical assignments, Q&A sessions, debate moderation, personalized learning);
Data Collection and Analysis Phase: Collection of quantitative and qualitative data through surveys, focus groups, and academic performance analysis, allowing for a comparison between the two groups and the identification of benefits, limitations, and best practices.
The research is conducted across different institutional and curricular contexts, ensuring a diverse range of scenarios within higher education in Portugal.
The study is developed in three main phases:
Preparation Phase: Analysis of international case studies on the use of GenAI in education and development of a strategy adapted to the national context. Templates and usage guides were also created to ensure consistency and clarity in the integration of ChatGPT across different curricular units;
Integration Phase: Practical application of ChatGPT in the classroom, involving various types of use (practical assignments, Q&A sessions, debate moderation, personalized learning);
Data Collection and Analysis Phase: Collection of quantitative and qualitative data through surveys, focus groups, and academic performance analysis, allowing for a comparison between the two groups and the identification of benefits, limitations, and best practices.
