Implementing a generative AI chatbot using OpenAI API to improve learner interaction in asynchronous distance learning: A user-centered approach.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Implementing a generative AI chatbot using OpenAI API to improve learner interaction in asynchronous distance learning: A user-centered approach.
Authors: Hsu, Jih-Shih1 hsujs@yuntech.edu.tw, Tsai, Wen-Lung1,2 jasper.dtc@outlook.com
Source: Educational Technology & Society. Apr2026, Vol. 29 Issue 2, p375-403. 29p.
Subject Terms: *Asynchronous learning, *Interactive learning, *Individualized instruction, *Psychological feedback, Chatbots, User-centered system design, Application program interfaces
Abstract: Asynchronous distance learning presents challenges for teachers in monitoring student progress and providing timely academic support due to the lack of real-time interaction. This study employs the OpenAI API to develop a generative artificial intelligence chatbot, integrating it into an asynchronous learning system to address these issues. Guided by User-Centered Design (UCD) principles, the design process of the system incorporates the empathy map, the persona, and the customer journey map to explore user experiences, identify pains, and propose value-driven solutions. The system comprises five modules: Course Unit Management, Online Test Management, Chatbot, Chat Sample Prompts, and Test Sample Prompts. These modules cooperatively offer students personalized learning support, real-time Q&A, and automated test feedback, allowing teachers to monitor student engagement. The usability test of the system was evaluated by teachers and students through using the System Usability Scale (SUS). The averaging results of the evaluation are above 95 for teachers and 85 for students, which indicating excellent system usability and effectiveness. The study found that the chatbot enhances learning recommendations, supports personalized learning, and reduces teacher workload, and Immediate feedback and concept clarification enhance student learning outcomes. This study contributes to the employment of human-centered AI in education, which demonstrating the potential of applying generative AI to enhance asynchronous learning environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Education Research Complete
Description
Abstract:Asynchronous distance learning presents challenges for teachers in monitoring student progress and providing timely academic support due to the lack of real-time interaction. This study employs the OpenAI API to develop a generative artificial intelligence chatbot, integrating it into an asynchronous learning system to address these issues. Guided by User-Centered Design (UCD) principles, the design process of the system incorporates the empathy map, the persona, and the customer journey map to explore user experiences, identify pains, and propose value-driven solutions. The system comprises five modules: Course Unit Management, Online Test Management, Chatbot, Chat Sample Prompts, and Test Sample Prompts. These modules cooperatively offer students personalized learning support, real-time Q&A, and automated test feedback, allowing teachers to monitor student engagement. The usability test of the system was evaluated by teachers and students through using the System Usability Scale (SUS). The averaging results of the evaluation are above 95 for teachers and 85 for students, which indicating excellent system usability and effectiveness. The study found that the chatbot enhances learning recommendations, supports personalized learning, and reduces teacher workload, and Immediate feedback and concept clarification enhance student learning outcomes. This study contributes to the employment of human-centered AI in education, which demonstrating the potential of applying generative AI to enhance asynchronous learning environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:11763647
DOI:10.30191/ETS.202604_29(2).SP09