Exploring how generative AI can provide personalised, scalable support for students at The Open University through an OU-designed, researched, and managed solution that embodies openness, accessibility, and innovation.
Overview
AIDA has been developed through a series of research and development phases, beginning with pilots on OpenLearn courses and now extending into faculty induction activities. These pilots have enabled the project team to test and refine different prototypes of the assistant, embedding them into real learning contexts to better understand how students engage with AI support.
Using an iterative, research-informed approach, the project has gathered evidence from hundreds of students and staff to evaluate how AIDA can enhance the student journey. Early findings suggest that AI-driven support has the potential to strengthen engagement, improve confidence at the start of study, and provide timely information that reduces duplication of effort for students and staff.
The project is a collaboration between the Institute of Educational Technology (IET) and the Knowledge Media Institute (KMi), with contributions from Digital Services, OpenLearn, and faculty colleagues, bringing together expertise in pedagogy, technology, and evaluation.
The role of IET
IET leads the pedagogical design and evaluation of the AIDA project. The team brings expertise in learning design, accessibility, and educational research to ensure that the development of the assistant is grounded in evidence and reflects the needs of diverse learners.
IET coordinates pilot activities, designs evaluation studies, and analyses feedback from students and staff. This work informs the iterative development of AIDA, helping to refine how the system is embedded into courses and programmes. IET also contributes to the wider institutional conversation about the responsible and ethical use of AI in education, sharing insights from the project through reports, academic publications, and professional networks.
By working closely with colleagues in KMi, Digital Services, OpenLearn, and faculties, IET ensures that AIDA is developed as a collaborative initiative that combines technological innovation with strong educational principles.
Impact
AIDA will provide evidence of how generative AI can be integrated into higher education in ways that are scalable, ethical, and student-centred. The project aims to:
- Improve student confidence and engagement at induction and early stages of study.
- Offer timely and personalised support that reduces duplication of effort for students and staff.
- Provide insights into how AI can enhance learning experiences while upholding principles of accessibility and inclusivity.
- Build an evidence base to inform institutional policies and future AI adoption across the OU.
- Contribute to wider sector discussions on the role of AI in supporting distance learners.
