Assessment of Learner Engagement and Expert Evaluations of AI-Generated Versus Human-Created Interactive Content in an Online Course

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v26i4.8608

Keywords:

Generative AI, online education, learner engagement, higher education, case study

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has introduced a novel aspect to educational methodologies and sparked fresh dialogues regarding the creation and evaluation of instructional resources. This project seeks to investigate the impact of GenAI on the development and assessment of online course materials and learners’ engagement with these materials in the online learning environment. The study analyzed GenAI-generated multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blank exercises, and true-false activities during 3 weeks of a 14-week online course. Subject matter experts assessed these documents in regards to content, relevance, and clarity. Data was collected through an online form with open-ended questions. The interactions of learners with the GenAI-created learning activities were analyzed using log records of the learning management system and compared to the content provided by the course instructor regarding interaction levels. The study’s conclusions elucidate the capability of GenAI technologies to produce course-specific content and their efficacy in education. We stress that human specialists’ critical evaluations play a crucial part in improving the pedagogical validity of GenAI-powered learning materials. Further research into topics including the ethical dimension, the effect on academic achievement, and student motivation is recommended.

Author Biographies

Hamza Aydemir, Faculty of Communication, Kahramanmaraş İstiklal University, Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye

Hamza Aydemir is a lecturer of the Digital Game Design Department at Kahramanmaraş İstiklal University. His research explores the integration of new technologies into learning, focusing on educational technology, game design and development, and the applications of artificial intelligence. He investigates how these technological interventions impact student motivation and academic achievement.

Şeyda Kır, Technology Transfer Office, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Türkiye

Şeyda Kır is an instructor at Yozgat Bozok University. She graduated from Anadolu University, Distance Education Department Master’s Program in 2019. Her research interests are MOOCs, OERs, micro-credentials, open pedagogy, lifelong learning, adult education, and open and distance learning.

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Published

2025-11-21

How to Cite

Aydemir, H., & Kır, Şeyda. (2025). Assessment of Learner Engagement and Expert Evaluations of AI-Generated Versus Human-Created Interactive Content in an Online Course. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 26(4), 1–23. https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v26i4.8608

Issue

Section

Research Articles