Reflection Blog: My Dissertation Topic Inquiry: AI-Powered Learning Technologies and Self-Regulated Learning in Higher Education

As I reflect on my journey in selecting a dissertation topic, one that excites me the most and aligns with my current academic pursuits is the impact of AI-powered learning technologies on Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) in higher education. This topic is not only personally intriguing but also relevant to the broader landscape of educational technology, a field in which I have already invested much time and energy.

Why This Topic?

My interest in this area stems from a combination of my background in instructional design, my work integrating AI tools at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, and my passion for exploring how emerging technologies can enhance cognition and learning. AI has been revolutionizing the way we approach education, and I am fascinated by how it can be leveraged to improve self-regulated learning—the ability of students to control their learning processes through goal setting, self-monitoring, and self-reflection.

AI-powered tools such as adaptive learning systems, intelligent tutoring, and data-driven feedback mechanisms have the potential to support students in becoming more autonomous and efficient learners. By studying this topic, I aim to uncover whether AI tools can enhance SRL behaviors, leading to better learning outcomes, and provide insights into how these technologies can be better integrated into higher education systems.

One specific example of how AI can support SRL is through adaptive learning systems, which adjust content and challenges based on individual learner progress, enabling students to set their own learning paths and goals. Intelligent tutoring systems can provide personalized feedback that encourages students to reflect on their learning progress and identify areas where they need improvement. AI tools, by creating personalized learning experiences, can foster deeper engagement, making learning more self-directed and dynamic.

The Scope: Sufficiently Narrow or Broad?

When I first considered the topic, I was concerned about its scope being too broad, given the vastness of AI and SRL as standalone subjects. However, after engaging in some initial activities and refining my approach, I now feel that the topic is well-defined and sufficiently narrow to address a research question of significant magnitude for my dissertation.

The scope, as it stands today, focuses on specific AI-powered learning tools (such as adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and AI-driven feedback mechanisms) and their impact on SRL in higher education. By focusing on how AI tools can specifically foster the skills associated with SRL—like goal setting, self-monitoring, and self-reflection—I’ve narrowed the inquiry down to a manageable, focused research question. This allows me to explore measurable outcomes related to SRL behaviors and academic performance while providing enough space for deeper analysis of how AI can aid in cognitive development.

The narrowness of the topic makes it more feasible for in-depth study, while still offering substantial opportunities for exploration. However, I recognize potential challenges. For instance, the variety of AI tools available and the different contexts in which they are used in higher education could create challenges in drawing generalizable conclusions.

Additionally, measuring SRL behaviors in a tech-enhanced learning environment can be complex. Despite these challenges, I am confident that the question of how AI can enhance SRL holds the potential to make a meaningful contribution to educational theory and practice, especially given the increasing role of technology in education.

The Impact of This Study

Beyond its academic importance, I believe this research can have a practical impact. Understanding how AI can enhance SRL has the potential to influence how AI tools are integrated into higher education curricula. If the findings show that AI tools can indeed foster SRL, it could lead to better-designed educational technologies that empower students to take control of their own learning.

For example, the study could provide valuable insights into the design of AI-powered learning platforms, helping educators and institutions develop more effective tools for student success. This could also influence the adoption of AI technologies across a range of disciplines, helping educators and policymakers prioritize strategies that foster independent learning, critical thinking, and metacognition in students.

Ethical Considerations

Given the focus on AI, I must also address the ethical considerations of this research. Key concerns include data privacy, particularly regarding student performance and personal data, and the potential for bias in AI algorithms. AI tools can sometimes reflect the biases of the data on which they are trained, and it is important to ensure that these tools are fair and accessible to all students, regardless of background. Additionally, I will need to ensure that the study is conducted with transparency and that all participants are aware of how their data will be used.

Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, and any data collected will be anonymized to protect their privacy. These ethical safeguards will help ensure that the study adheres to the highest standards of research integrity.

Personal Reflection

This research is deeply personal for me, as it ties together my passions for technology, education, and cognitive development. Beyond my professional background, I am driven by a genuine curiosity about how AI can transform the educational experience. I’m excited to explore how this technology can empower students to take ownership of their learning, develop critical thinking skills, and succeed in a rapidly changing academic world.

As I embark on this research journey, I am also reflecting on my growth as a researcher. This topic allows me to combine my interest in AI with my long-term goal of improving educational practices through innovative technologies. It’s a journey that connects my past experiences, current role, and future aspirations, and I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Conclusion: A Researchable and Impactful Inquiry

Looking back at how the topic has evolved, I am excited about the direction my dissertation will take. By focusing on AI tools and their role in enhancing self-regulated learning, I am not only delving into an area of great interest but also addressing an issue that holds the promise of transforming educational experiences. The topic is now sufficiently narrow to be researchable while being broad enough to explore significant implications for higher education practices.

In the coming months, I will continue refining my approach, conducting a thorough literature review, and planning the methodology for data collection and analysis. I am optimistic that this research will help inform how AI can be used more effectively to support student autonomy and, ultimately, improve educational outcomes.