The Role of Instructional Designers in the Integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Online and Blended Learning in Higher Education.

Kumar, Swapna; Gunn, Ariel; Rose, Robert; Pollard, Rhiannon; Johnson, Margeaux; Ritzhaupt, Albert D.

The purpose of this exploratory research study was to examine the roles instructional designers (IDs) play in the integration of generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) into their higher education institutions, and how they use GenAI technologies in their own professional practices. Data were collected from 15 participants in the United States (U.S.) in an ID role or with similar job titles (e.g., educational technologist). Using a general qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted in Zoom about IDs’ use and integration of GenAI. Our analysis resulted in three primary themes related to IDs’ integration of GenAI in online and blended education: (a) the use of GenAI for instructional design; (b) collaborative guidance for faculty integration of GenAI; and (c) training, resources, and guidelines on the integration of GenAI. A common thread through all the themes was IDs’ conscientious and cautious approach and ethical concerns about GenAI integration. We unpack these themes and discuss the implications of IDs in higher education integrating GenAI to meet organizational, faculty, and student needs.

GENERATIVE artificial intelligence; UNIVERSITIES & colleges; JOB titles; INSTRUCTIONAL systems design; SEMI-structured interviews; BLENDED learning; ONLINE education

Online Learning, 2024, Vol 28, Issue 3, p207

2472-5749

Academic Journal

10.24059/olj.v28i3.4501