EDUCATIONAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE AI-BASED CONVERSATIONAL AGENTS IN VIRTUAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS (VLES/LMSS)
A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Keywords:
Conversational agents, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Learning EnvironmentsAbstract
This Systematic Literature Review applied PRISMA 2020 guidelines to 42 studies on educational and administrative AI-based conversational agents integrated into VLEs/LMSs, selected from 234 records retrieved in seven databases (2022–2026). The studies show a clear shift from rule-based chatbots to systems built on LLMs and RAG. Most are pilots with small samples, aimed mainly at tutoring, feedback, administrative support and engagement. Effectiveness results are favourable, but methodological heterogeneity and the lack of longitudinal studies limit generalization.
Downloads
Metrics
References
ABID, A.; SOMAI, M.; KAMMOUN, H. M.; KALLEL, I. The NAJEH Effect: How ChatGPT is Shaping the Future of Higher Education. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BASED HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING (ITHET), 21., 2024, Paris. Proceedings […]. Paris: IEEE, 2024. p. 1–8.
AHMED, F.; FATIMA, N.; SARDAR, M. B.; ALIBHAI, M. Exploring the Integration of Virtual Assistant Using Large Language Models in Learning Management System: Enhancing Educational Accessibility and Efficiency. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS AND INNOVATION, 2024, Indonésia. Proceedings […]. Indonésia: ICITSI 2024. p. 189-198.
ALLEN, M.; NAEEM, U.; GILL, S. S. Q-Module-Bot: a generative ai-based question and answer bot for module teaching support. IEEE Transactions on Education, [s. l.], v. 67, n. 5, p. 793–802, 2024.
ALVARADO, Y.; GUERRERO, R.; SERÓN, F. Inclusive Learning through Immersive Virtual Reality and Semantic Embodied Conversational Agent: A case study in children with autism. Journal of Computer Science & Technology, [s. l.], v. 23, n. 2, p. 107–116, 2023.
ARMAS, C. A. Ecossistema de um Assistente Virtual Inteligente Empático para apoio ao ensino a distância. 2025. Tese (Doutorado em Engenharia de Sistemas Eletrônicos) — Escola Politécnica, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, 2025.
BABOU, B.; SYLLA, K.; SOW, M. Y.; OUYA, S. Integration of a Chatbot to Facilitate Access to Educational Content in Digital Universities. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY, 26., 2024, South Korea. Proceedings […]. South Korea: ICACT, 2024.
BELLONI, M. L. Educação a distância. 5. ed. Campinas: Autores Associados, 2009.
CHAMNANKIJ, P.; NAOWANICH, E.; TUMTHONG, S. A Design Framework for Personalized Intelligent Tutoring Systems Integrating Knowledge Tracing and Retrieval-Augmented Generation. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology, [s. l.], v. 104, n. 5, p. 436–453, 2026.
CHEN, H.; ANYANWU, C. C. AI in education: evaluating the impact of Moodle AI-powered chatbots and metacognitive teaching approaches on academic performance of higher institution Business Education students. Education and Information Technologies, n. 9, 2025.
COSTAGLIOLA, G.; DE ROSA, M.; FUCCELLA, V.; PISCITELLI, A.; TABARI, P. Quiz Generation and Chat Interaction with LLMs: a design and implementation of an AI-Based LMS. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SOFTWARE, TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND COMPUTER NETWORKS, 33., 2025, Croatia. Proceedings […]. Croatia: SoftCOM, 2025. p. 1–6
CORPORATION FOR DIGITAL SCHOLARSHIP. Zotero: your personal research assistant, Vienna, 2024. Software. Disponível em: https://www.zotero.org. Acesso em: 24 maio 2026.
DAHAL, P.; NUGROHO, S.; SCHMIDT, C.; SAENGER, V. AI-Based Learning Recommendations: Use in Higher Education. Future Internet, MDPI, 2025.
ELTAHIR, M. E.; BABIKER, F. M. E. The Influence of Artificial Intelligence Tools on Student Performance in e-Learning Environments: Case Study. Electronic Journal of e-Learning, [s. l.], v. 22, n. 9, p. 91–110, 2024.
FREITAS, V. Parsifal: perform systematic literature reviews. 2013. Software. Disponível em: https://parsif.al. Acesso em: 24 maio 2026.
GAO, H.; HUAI, H.; YILDIZ-DEGIRMENCI, S.; BANNERT, M.; KASNECI, E. DataliVR: Transformation of Data Literacy Education through Virtual Reality with ChatGPT-Powered Enhancements. In: INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON MIXED AND AUGMENTED REALITY, 23., 2024, United States. Proceedings […]. United States: IEEE ISMAR, 2024. p. 120-129.
GARRISON, D. R.; ANDERSON, T.; ARCHER, W. Critical inquiry in a text-based environment: computer conferencing in higher education. The Internet and Higher Education, [s. l.], v. 2, n. 2-3, p. 87–105, 2000.
GUTIERREZ, R.; VILLEGAS-CH, W.; GOVEA, J. Development of adaptive and emotionally intelligent educational assistants based on conversational AI. Frontiers in Computer Science, [s. l.], v. 7, art. 1628104, 2025.
HAN, S. Learner autonomy and mode selection in dual-mode chatbot: Students' interaction patterns and learning outcomes in an online course. Computers & Education, [s. l.], v. 240, art. 105464, 2026.
HIGGINS, J. P. T. et al. Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions. Version 6.3. Londres: Cochrane, 2022.
HU, Y.-H.; YU, H.-Y.; HSIEH, C.-L. Can pedagogical Agent-Based scaffolding boost information Problem-Solving in One-on-One collaborative learning with a virtual learning companion? Education and Information Technologies, [s. l.], v. 30, p. 25.853–25.880, 2025.
JORDAN, K. Massive Open Online Course completion rates revisited: assessment, length and attrition. International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, [s. l.], v. 16, n. 3, p. 341–358, 2015.
KAISS, W.; MANSOURI, K.; POIRIER, F. Effectiveness of an Adaptive Learning Chatbot on Students' Learning Outcomes Based on Learning Styles. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET), [s. l.], v. 18, n. 13, p. 250–261, 2023.
KITCHENHAM, B.; CHARTERS, S. Guidelines for performing systematic literature reviews in software engineering. Keele: Keele University, 2007. (EBSE Technical Report EBSE-2007-01).
KITCHENHAM, B. et al. Systematic literature reviews in software engineering — A tertiary study. Information and Software Technology, [s. l.], v. 52, n. 8, p. 792–805, 2010.
KLAYKLUENG, N.; CHATWATTANA, P. Architecture of the Service Platform via Artificial Intelligence Chatbots to Promote Students' Digital Competency. International Education Studies, [s. l.], v. 18, n. 3, p. 70–79, 2025.
LECON, C. Supporting Distributed Learning through Immersive Learning Environments. Athens Journal of Education, [s. l.], v. 11, p. 1–14, 2024.
LEE, J.; REW, J. Memory-Augmented Large Language Model for Enhanced Chatbot Services in University Learning Management Systems. Applied Sciences, [s. l.], v. 15, art. 9775, 2025.
LÓPEZ-GOYEZ, J. P.; GONZÁLEZ-BRIONES, A.; DEMAZEAU, Y. An Adaptive Multi-Agent Architecture with Reinforcement Learning and Generative AI for Intelligent Tutoring Systems: A Moodle-Based Case Study. Applied Sciences, MDPI, [s. l.], v. 16, art. 1323, 2026.
LUTFIANI, N.; WIJONO, S.; RAHARDJA, U.; IRIANI, A.; AINI, Q.; SEPTIAN, R. A. D. A Bibliometric Study: Recommendation based on Artificial Intelligence for iLearning Education. APTISI Transactions on Technopreneurship (ATT), [s. l.], v. 5, n. 2, p. 109–117, 2023.
LYTRIDIS, C.; TSINAKOS, A. AIMT Agent: An Artificial Intelligence-Based Academic Support System. Information, MDPI, [s. l.], v. 16, art. 275, 2025.
MACÍAS, M. V.; KHARLASHKIN, L.; HUOVINEN, L. E.; HÄMÄLÄINEN, M. Empowering Teachers with Usability-Oriented LLM-Based Tools for Digital Pedagogy. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING FOR DIGITAL HUMANITIES, 4., 2024, United States. Proceedings […]. United States: ACL, 2024. p. 549–557.
MEHNEN, L.; POHN, B. Supporting Academic Teaching with Integrating AI in Learning Management Systems: Introducing a Toolchain for Students and Lecturers. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SOFTWARE, TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND COMPUTER NETWORKS, 32., 2024, Croatia. Proceedings […]. Croatia: SoftCOM, 2024. p. 1–6.
MOORE, M. G. Theory of transactional distance. In: KEEGAN, D. (org.). Theoretical principles of distance education. London: Routledge, 1993. p. 22–38.
MORAES NETO, A. J.; FERNANDES, M.; AMIEL, T. Conversational Analysis to Recommend Collaborative Learning in Distance Education. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON COMPUTER SUPPORTED EDUCATION, 14., 2022, online. Proceedings […]. Portugal: CSEDU, 2022.
MZWRI, K.; TURCSÁNYI-SZABÓ, M. Bridging LMS and Generative AI: Dynamic Course Content Integration (DCCI) for Enhancing Student Satisfaction and Engagement via the Ask ME Assistant. Journal of Computers in Education, [s. l.], v. 13, p. 585-622, 2025.
NEUMANN, A. T.; YIN, Y.; SOWE, S.; DECKER, S.; JARKE, M. An LLM-Driven Chatbot in Higher Education for Databases and Information Systems. IEEE Transactions on Education, [s. l.], v. 68, n. 1, 2025.
NOZHOVNIK, O.; HARBUZA, T.; TESLENKO, N.; OKHRIMENKO, O.; ZALIZNIUK, V.; DURDAS, A. Chatbot Gamified and Automated Management of L2 Learning Process Using Smart Sender Platform. International Journal of Educational Methodology, [s. l.], v. 9, n. 3, p. 603–618, 2023.
OUZZANI, M.; HAMMADY, H.; FEDOROWICZ, Z.; ELMAGARMID, A. Rayyan — a web and mobile app for systematic reviews. Systematic Reviews, [s. l.], v. 5, art. 210, 2016. DOI: 10.1186/s13643-016-0384-4.
PAGE, M. J. et al. The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ, [s. l.], v. 372, art. n71, 2021.
PAUNOVIC, V.; UYAR, S.; TANIC, M. Implementing Chat GPT in Moodle for Enhanced eLearning Systems. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON E-LEARNING, 14., 2023, Serbia. Proceedings […]. Serbia: Ceur-ws.org, 2023. p. 147–160.
PUERTAS, E.; MARISCAL-VIVAS, G.; MARTÍNEZ-REQUEJO, S. Development of chatbots connected to Learning Management Systems for the support and formative assessment of students. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON EDUCATION AND E-LEARNING, 7., 2023, Japan. Proceedings […]. Japan: ICEEL, 2023. p. 14-18.
RASANJANI, C.; ANURADHA, K. Integration of Chatbots into LMS for Real-Time Academic Support and Resource Discovery. International Academic Journal of Science and Engineering, [s. l.], v. 11, n. 4, p. 5–9, 2024.
SABAR, A.; LAKMAL, C.; GAMAGE, S.; KULAWANSA, D.; ABISHEK, S.; PERERA, P. AI-Powered Student Learning System. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (SLAAI-ICAI), 8., 2024, Colombo. Proceedings [...]. Colombo: IEEE, 2024. p. 1-6. DOI 10.1109/SLAAI-ICAI64210.2024.10844979. Disponível em: ieee.org. Acesso em: 9 ago. 2026.
SANDRA, R. P.; FAUZAN, A.; HWANG, W.-Y.; ZAFIRAH, A.; HARIYANTI, U.; ENGKIZAR, E.; HADI, A. Crafting Compelling Argumentative Writing for Undergraduates: Exploring the Nexus of Digital Annotations, Conversational Agents, and Collaborative Concept Maps. Journal of Educational Computing Research, [s. l.], p. 1–31, 2024.
SEDRAKYAN, G.; BORSCI, S.; MACHADO, M.; ROGETZER, P.; MES, M. Design Implications for Integrating AI Chatbot Technology with Learning Management Systems: A Study-based Analysis on Perceived Benefits and Challenges in Higher Education. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND TEACHER EDUCATION (ICAITE), 2024, Beijing. Proceedings [...]. New York: ACM, 2024. p. 1–8. DOI 10.1145/3702386.3702405. Disponível em: https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/3702386.3702405. Acesso em: 9 ago. 2026.
SERRANO FRANCO, G. Development of a Chatbot to Improve Tutoring in Engineering Programs: A Focus at the Universidad Politécnica Metropolitana de Hidalgo. RIDE, [s. l.], v. 16, n. 31, art. e918, 2025.
SIMMONS, A.; HOLANDA, M.; SILVA, D. WIP: Context-Aware AI in Learning Management Systems for Computer Science Courses. In: IEEE FRONTIERS IN EDUCATION CONFERENCE (FIE), 54., 2024, Washington, DC. Proceedings [...]. Piscataway: IEEE, 2024. p. 1-4. DOI 10.1109/FIE61093.2024.11328241. Disponível em: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/11328241/. Acesso em: 9 ago. 2026.
SNEKHA, S.; AYYANATHAN, N. An Educational CRM Chatbot for Learning Management System. Shanlax International Journal of Education, [s. l.], v. 11, n. 4, p. 58–62, 2023.
SOWMYA, M. R.; VEEKSHA, C. S.; BHUMIKA, R.; SWATI, S. U.; HOSAMANI, T. Edusphere: AI and Web Integrated Platform for Cognitive Learning. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ADVANCED MATERIALS, AUTOMATION, COMPUTING AND TECHNOLOGIES FOR HUMANITY (AMATHE), 2., 2025, India. Proceedings [...]. Piscataway: IEEE, 2025. Disponível em: ieee.org. Acesso em: 9 ago. 2026.
VASWANI, A.; SHAZEER, N.; PARMAR, N.; USZKOREIT, J.; JONES, L.; GOMEZ, A. N.; KAISER, Ł.; POLOSUKHIN, I. Attention is all you need. Advances in Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2017), [s. l.], v. 30, 2017.
VILLEGAS-CH, W.; GOVEA, J.; GUTIERREZ, R. Optimizing Language Model-Based Educational Assistants Using Knowledge Graphs: Integration With Moodle LMS. IEEE Access, [s. l.], v. 12, p. 191.994-192.012, 2024.
VINUTHA, K.; GOPAL, A. S.; MANJUNATH, T. N.; SINCHANA, R. P.; NITHYASHRI, S. Dynamic Content Generation for Learning Management System Using Generative AI. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON COMPUTING FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND INTELLIGENT FUTURE (COMP-SIF), 2025. Proceedings [...]. Piscataway: IEEE, 2025. Disponível em: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10969929/. Acesso em: 9 ago. 2026.
VU, D.-M.; LE, H.-H.; TAN, P. X.; TU, N. T. T. Personalized and Scalable Problem-Based Learning in Soft Skills Education: The Role of AI Agents in Multidisciplinary Contexts. International Journal of Engineering Pedagogy (iJEP), [s. l.], v. 16, n. 1, p. 24–43, 2026.
VYGOTSKY, L. S. A formação social da mente: o desenvolvimento dos processos psicológicos superiores. 4. ed. São Paulo: Martins Fontes, 1991.
YANG, L.; XU, S.; GAO, H.; LONG, Z.; HU, X.; XU, W. AI-Powered Socratic Learning for Psychological Statistics: Enhancing Flipped Classroom Practices with Generative Intelligent Tutoring Systems. In: GLOBAL CHINESE CONFERENCE ON COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION (GCCCE), 29., 2025, Wuxi. Proceedings [...]. Wuxi: GCSCE, 2025. Disponível em: https://nlt.gcsce.net/ojs/index.php/GCCCE/art
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2026 Leonardo Braga Guimarães, Vinicius Delfino Silva, Vanessa Battestin, Rutinelli da Penha Fávero
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
By submitting an article to EmRede Journal and having it approved, the authors agree to transfer, without remuneration, the following rights to EmRede: the rights of first publication and the permission for EmRede to redistribute this article and its metadata to indexing and reference that its editors deem appropriate. By virtue of appearing in this public access magazine, the articles are free to use by the authors, with attributions that allow distribution, remix, adaptation and creation based on your work, even for commercial purposes, as long as due credit is given for the original creation to EmRede Journal.
Creative Commons License - Attribution 4.0 International (CC-BY).