Opening the discussion: Generative AI and postgraduate student learner journeys 

Duncan Duriez (School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences) 

Titled ‘Let’s chat: An exploration of postgraduates’ lived experiences with ChatGPT in the United Kingdom,’ this interpretive research project aims to develop an in-depth understanding of postgraduates’ lived experiences with ChatGPT, a generative AI tool that has the potential to transform teaching and learning (e.g. Strzlecki, 2023). This topic is highly relevant as novel technological developments like ChatGPT can potentially transform not only learning journeys but also the higher education (HE) sector, the labour market and society at large, which raises concerns about graduates’ employability skills and well-being. 

During the session, attendees will be encouraged to participate and share their thoughts on how students react when ChatGPT is mentioned. The data collected will be presented and used as a starting point for an interactive discussion on my current research into postgraduate students’ responses towards ChatGPT. 

The session has the potential to ignite a discussion on the influence of Generative AI on student learner journeys. It will empower participants to become advocates of technological change, fostering an environment where we can openly address the challenges and opportunities of generative AI tools with students. The session’s main takeaway will be a comprehensive understanding of how postgraduate students incorporate generative AI into their learning.