Faculty/School

Faculty of Business and Law

School of Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Centre for Future Enterprise

Primary Supervisor

Dr Thusyanthy Lavan
Position
Lecturer (TIEA)
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Business & Law

Other QUT supervisors

Overview

This interdisciplinary project investigates how Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) influences university students' educational outcomes. The project explores both the benefits and potential challenges of GenAI use in higher education, including its effects on student engagement, learning experiences, trust, motivation, behavioural intention, and perceived risks. It also examines how different forms of self-regulation influence students' educational experiences with GenAI.

The project draws on theories from marketing, educational technology, psychology, information systems, and artificial intelligence. It forms part of an existing quantitative research project for which survey data have already been collected from university students, and statistical analyses are currently underway. The VRES student will contribute to the development of a journal manuscript by undertaking a comprehensive literature review and assisting with manuscript preparation.

Research engagement

The student will conduct a comprehensive and up-to-date literature review on the impact of Generative AI in higher education. They will identify current research trends, theoretical perspectives, and knowledge gaps, and synthesise findings from recent academic studies. The student will also assist with writing the literature review and discussion sections of the manuscript, helping to integrate current evidence with the project's quantitative findings.

Research activities

The student will search and review literature using QUT Library databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest. They will organise research findings using Microsoft Excel and Word, summarise key themes from the literature, and contribute to drafting sections of an academic journal manuscript. The student will work closely with Dr Thusyanthy Lavan (School of Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations) and will receive regular supervision, guidance, and feedback throughout the project.

Research skills

The student will gain practical experience in conducting literature reviews, evidence synthesis, academic writing, and quantitative research projects. They will develop skills in searching academic databases, critically evaluating research, and preparing manuscripts suitable for publication. The project will also provide valuable knowledge of Generative AI research, digital marketing, educational technology, and responsible AI adoption in higher education.

Outcomes

The project aims to advance understanding of how Generative AI influences students' educational outcomes and how self-regulation shapes these experiences. The findings will contribute to the growing body of research on responsible GenAI adoption in higher education. The expected outcomes include a comprehensive literature review, contributions to a quantitative journal manuscript, and a presentation at the Faculty of Business and Law VRES Showcase.

Skills and experience

No formal prerequisites are required. Students with an interest in Generative AI, digital technologies, higher education, marketing, or educational research are encouraged to apply. Applicants should have good academic writing and critical thinking skills, be able to work independently, and have a basic understanding of searching academic literature using databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. Experience with literature reviews or research projects would be advantageous but is not essential.

Start date

2 November, 2026

End date

19 February, 2027

Location

Research activities will primarily be undertaken remotely or on campus at QUT Gardens Point, depending on the student's preference and supervision arrangements. Flexible working arrangements will be available where appropriate.

Additional information

The student will have access to QUT Library databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest, together with relevant academic literature and project documentation. They will receive regular supervision, mentoring, and feedback throughout the project.

As survey data have already been collected and the quantitative analyses are underway, the student will have the opportunity to contribute directly to an active research project with strong publication potential.

Keywords

Contact

Thusyanthy Lavan

07 3138 5218

thusyanthy.lavan@qut.edu.au