Research Examines Custom AI Tools as Pedagogical Partners in Online Higher Education

A recent study explores the role of instructor-developed custom GPTs in enhancing immersive learning within online higher education. This research tackles the pressing issue of maintaining student engagement amid the growth of digital learning. Utilizing the Immersive Learning Cube framework, it defines immersion through three aspects: system (environmental envelopment), narrative (meaningful context), and agency (commitment to meaning-making). By qualitatively analyzing two case studies—a graduate grant writing course in the United States and an undergraduate software engineering course in Portugal—the paper assesses the impact of these AI tools on learning experiences. While large language models show promise for improving feedback, there has been limited exploration of instructor-designed custom GPTs tailored to specific educational objectives. This study investigates how these tools promote deep cognitive engagement for both students and educators.