[publication] Pedagogical Infrastructures of MOOC Design for Employees Training in Leading Organizations #mooc

Our research paper, „Pedagogical Infrastructures of MOOC Design for Employees Training in Leading Organizations,“ has been published:

Abstract:
As the most promising form of education, Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have recently received lots of attention, especially in the leading organizations, requiring closer attention to be paid to the MOOCs’ implementation platforms before their execution. This qualitative study aims to analyze the pedagogical infrastructures in MOOCs designed for employee training in leading organizations. The research population includes documents retrieved by searching authentic Persian and Latin databases. Out of 142 studies (2013–2023), 73 were selected using a criterion sampling method. Data were gathered using the library research method and then analyzed via thematic analysis. The model validation process was presented using expert judgment. The researcher-made questionnaire for content validation of the conceptual model was then sent to the experts and the final model was approved after the modifications were made. Finally, eight sub-categories (i.e., application of learning paradigms and theories, motivational strategies in the educational environment, application of evaluation module strategies and criteria, provision of an interactive platform, infrastructure for developing the content of the course selection, setting the educational and learning goals, determining the learners’ activity in learning, application of the learners engagement types) were obtained.

[draft @ ResearchGate]
[final publication @ publisher’s website]

Reference: Fathi Hafshejani, F., Ebner, M. (2025). Pedagogical Infrastructures of MOOC Design for Employees Training in Leading Organizations. In: Auer, M.E., May, D. (eds) 2024 Yearbook Emerging Technologies in Learning. Learning and Analytics in Intelligent Systems, vol 44. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-80388-8_12

[publication] Ensuring Quality in AI-Generated Multiple-Choice Questions for Higher Education with the QUEST Framework #AI #tugraz #research

This is an impactful contributions, methodological rigor, and exceptional novelty in the research field of AI in education.

Another research paper about the use of AI for education – titled „Ensuring Quality in AI-Generated Multiple-Choice Questions for Higher Education with the QUEST Framework“ – was published.

Abstract:
With the rise of generative AI models, such as large language models (LLMs), in educational settings, there is a growing demand to ensure the quality of AI-generated multiple-choice questions (MCQs) used in higher education. Traditional quiz development methods fall short in addressing the unique challenges posed by AI-generated content, such as consistency, cognitive demand, and question uniqueness. This paper presents the QUEST framework, a structured approach designed specifically to evaluate the quality of LLM-generated MCQs across five dimensions: Quality, Uniqueness, Effort, Structure, and Transparency. Following an iterative research process, AI-generated questions were assessed and refined using QUEST, revealing that the framework effectively improves question clarity, relevance, and educational value. The findings suggest that QUEST is a viable tool for educators to maintain high-quality standards in AI-generated assessments, ensuring these resources meet the pedagogical needs of diverse learners in higher education.

[draft @ ResearchGate]
[full article @ publisher’s website]

Reference: Ebner, M., Brünner, B., Forjan, N., Schön, S. (2025). Ensuring Quality in AI-Generated Multiple-Choice Questions for Higher Education with the QUEST Framework. In: Tomczyk, Ł. (eds) New Media Pedagogy: Research Trends, Methodological Challenges, and Successful Implementations. NMP 2024. Communications in Computer and Information Science, vol 2537. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-95627-0_20

[publication] A multilingual OER MOOC: A case study on production and usage in a university cooperation #KI #tugraz #research

This is an impactful contributions, methodological rigor, and exceptional novelty in the research field of AI in education.

Our publication about our OER-MOOC titled „A multilingual OER MOOC: A case study on production and usage in a university cooperation“ is now published.

Abstract:
This paper investigates the processes, outcomes, and impact of the Unite! OER Courses Project, a cross-university initiative aimed at promoting Open Educational Resources (OER) across nine European higher education institutions. Aligned with UNESCO’s OER recommendations and the Open Science movement, the project sought to enhance accessibility to high-quality educational materials and foster digital competencies among both educators and students. The research adopts a qualitative case study approach, leveraging project reports and feedback from partners. Through the development of a multilingual massive open online course (MOOC) and an international OER course, the project addressed several core goals, including support for Open Science competencies and the advancement of digital literacy across Europe. The MOOC, launched in May 2024, attracted over 1,400 participants, exceeding initial targets and demonstrating the growing demand for accessible OER content. Furthermore, capacity-building workshops aimed at educators provided training on how to incorporate OER. Initial findings indicate that the project successfully developed and disseminated several OER materials, including a multilingual MOOC and additional resources translated into Turkish, Indonesian, and Arabic. The project also fostered capacity-building among partner institutions, enabling broader engagement with OER practices. Participants in the MOOC and related activities have also reported a significant increase in their competencies regarding OER and Open Science. This study underscores the value of cross-institutional collaboration and the potential of OER to enhance radical creativity, educational accessibility, and innovation in higher education.

[article @ ResearchGate]
[article @ Journal’s Homepage]

Reference: Schön, S., Ebner, M., Hohla-Sejkora, K., Keller, E., Rapp, A., Ribeiro, M. H., Segradin, R., & Vicente-Saez, R. (2025). A multilingual OER MOOC: A case study on production and usage in a university cooperation. Journal of Open, Distance, and Digital Education, 2(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.25619/y956n017

[ijet, journal] Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning Vol. 20 / No.02 #ijet #research

Issue 20(02) of our journal on emerging technologies for learning got published. Enjoy the readings as usual for free :-).

Table of Contents:

  • Evaluating User Experience in Learning Applications among University Students in Nigeria Using UEQ
  • Enhancing Language Learning Experience with Augmented Reality Games: A Systematic Review of Empirical Studies from 2019–2023
  • Clustering Students Based on Online Learning Interactions Using Social Network Analysis
  • Strengths and Challenges in Teaching and Learning in Education with the Use of Information and Communication Technologies/li>
  • Navigating a 360-Degree Cued Virtual Classroom
  • Art Education in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Advancing the Elimination of Technological Anxiety

[Link to Issue 20/02]

Nevertheless, if you are interested to become a reviewer for the journal, please just contact me 🙂 .

[publication] aicast: Combining AI-Generated and Instructor-Defined Content in Educational Podcasts #research #tugraz

At this year’s ED-Media conference, we introduced a new AI-based concept for educational podcasts: „aicast: Combining AI-Generated and Instructor-Defined Content in Educational Podcasts„.

Abstract:
Generative AI is transforming educational content. In this poster, we present aicast.fyi, an open-source platform for producing personalized educational podcasts that combine AI-generated and instructor-defined content. Each track contains dynamic and fixed segments. Instructors define guiding questions during track design, ensuring alignment with learning objectives. This hybrid approach addresses concerns about maintaining instructional integrity with automation and personalization. The poster provides an architectural overview and demonstrates how the system integrates text generation and voice synthesis to produce audio-based learning experiences. Instructional designers must play an active role in shaping AI-assisted educational tools. This poster invites educators, designers, and researchers to engage with aicast and collaborate on developing high-quality, responsible, and learner-centered audio content. By allowing learners to control content sequences and personalize segments based on their own inputs, aicast.fyi also supports self-regulated learning (SRL), empowering users to take ownership of their educational journey.

[draft @ ResearchGate]
[full article @ conference website]

Reference: Brünner, B., Leitner, P., Geier, G. & Ebner, M. (2025). aicast: Combining AI-Generated and Instructor-Defined Content in Educational Podcasts. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 148-152). Barcelona, Spain: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved June 4, 2025 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/226139/

[presentation] Implementing multilingual MOOCs in European University Alliances with the help of AI usage, LTI and open licenses: Technical & organizational challenges #tugraz #emoocs2025

We also presented one paper within the Experience Track of the EMOOCs 2025 conference in Paris. This time the presentation was about „Implementing multilingual MOOCs in European University Alliances with the help of AI usage, LTI and open licenses: Technical & organizational challenges (Presentation)„. Our slides are, of course, available online.

[Link to the slides]

[publication] Workshop for Special Interest Group Emerging Technologies for Learning and Teaching: Exploring Educational Podcasts with AI #tugraz #research

We also did workshops at this year’s ED-Media conference. One of them was titled „Workshop for Special Interest Group Emerging Technologies for Learning and Teaching: Exploring Educational Podcasts with AI“ and followed the idea of open discussions.

Abstract:
How can educators unleash the power of AI without losing control over core educational strategies? In this workshop, we introduced aicast, an open-source platform for educational podcasts that combines the best of both worlds: AI-generated elements for personalization and flexibility, and fixed elements, with instructor-defined content to ensure pedagogical accuracy. This hybrid approach reduces the risks associated with AI-generated materials like hallucinations. Attendees experienced how the platform utilizes LLMs like ChatGPT for personalized content authoring and ElevenLabs for high-quality voice synthesis, enabling real-time creation of educational audio content. After a short demo and hands-on session, participants engaged in a guided discussion: What is the core of an educational podcast? Most importantly from the perspective of an instructional designer, how must an educational podcast be? This session was part of the Special Interest Group on Emerging Technologies for Learning and Teaching at the ED-Media 2025 conference.

[draft @ ResearchGate]
[full article @ conference website]

Reference: Ebner, M. & Brünner, B. (2025). Workshop for Special Interest Group Emerging Technologies for Learning and Teaching: Exploring Educational Podcasts with AI. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 1375-1376). Barcelona, Spain: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved June 4, 2025 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/226347/.

[publication] Early Findings from Pilots in AI-Driven Education: Effects of AI-Generated Courses and Videos on Learning and Teaching #research #tugraz #AI

This is an impactful contributions, methodological rigor, and exceptional novelty in the research field of AI in education.

Our chapter in the new book on Emerging Technologies, „Early Findings from Pilots in AI-Driven Education: Effects of AI-Generated Courses and Videos on Learning and Teaching,“ has been published.

Abstract:
This paper presents the (preliminary) findings from three pilot activities conducted at TU Graz over the past 18 months, exploring the use of AI in generating (open) educational resources. The first pilot involved developing a MOOC titled “Societech: Society in the Context of Information Technologies”, which utilized various AI tools to create videos and learning materials, engaging over 500 participants. The second pilot focused on creating multilingual videos for the MOOC “Open Educational Resources in Higher Education”, using AI-generated avatars of course instructors, involving more than 800 participants. The third pilot was a field study conducted in an Austrian secondary school, where 20 students aged 12–15 could choose between videos featuring their teacher, an AI-generated human avatar, or a cartoon character. Preliminary results indicate a clear preference for teacher-led videos, highlighting the significant role of the teacher in the learning process. While AI tools facilitated quicker and more cost-effective production of educational resources, challenges such as the need for quality assurance and handling of (now possible) automatic translations were noted.

[draft @ ResearchGate]
[full version @ publisher’s website]

Reference: Schön, S., Brünner, B., Ebner, M., Edelsbrunner, S., Hohla-Sejkora, K., Uhl, B. (2025). Early Findings from Pilots in AI-Driven Education: Effects of AI-Generated Courses and Videos on Learning and Teaching. In: Auer, M.E., May, D. (eds) 2024 Yearbook Emerging Technologies in Learning. Learning and Analytics in Intelligent Systems, vol 44. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-80388-8_2

[publication] Empowering Students through Visual Analytics: A Dashboard Redesign for Modern #learninganalytics #tugraz

Our paper, „Empowering Students through Visual Analytics: A Dashboard Redesign for Modern,“ which was awarded at this year’s EDMedia conference, is now available online.

Abstract:
Graz University of Technology originally launched a study progress dashboard in 2020 to help students monitor their academic progress and better understand their degree structures. In response to systematic changes in the university’s academic data modeling and the phasing out of legacy curricula between 2022 and 2024, the dashboard underwent a complete technical and conceptual overhaul. This paper presents the redesigned tool, which now features a modular, service-oriented architecture, real-time integration of current curricula, and enriched analytics combining student records with historical performance data. Supporting all Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, the updated dashboard continues to prioritize usability, transparency, and student autonomy. Drawing on student feedback and us-age data collected since the dashboard’s introduction, we analyze patterns of adoption and engagement, highlight lessons learned, and offer practical guidance for institutions aiming to implement adaptable, student-centered learning analytics systems.

[draft @ researchgate]
[full paper @ conference website]

Reference: Leitner, P., Pranter, P.P., Brünner, B. & Ebner, M. (2025). Empowering Students through Visual Analytics: A Dashboard Redesign for Modern Curricula. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 599-608). Barcelona, Spain: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved May 28, 2025 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/226201/.