Learning with Tesla: Students' perception and motivation in relation to an educational chatbot in Serbian primary schools

This study examines the impact of using a persona-based educational chatbot, modeled after Nikola Tesla, on student motivation in Serbian primary schools. The objective of the research was to determine how students’ perceptions of chatbot functionality, interactivity, and educational value influence their motivation to learn. A quantitative, non-experimental survey design was employed, with data collected from 456 students across four subjects: Serbian language and literature, History, English, and Physics. Statistical analysis included correlation and multiple regression analysis, focusing on three primary motivational factors: functionality, engagement, and educational value. The main findings indicate that the educational value of the chatbot was the strongest predictor of student motivation (β = .378, p < .001), while functionality and interactivity played a secondary role. Additionally, the study explored the potential motivational impact of the chatbot’s persona as a culturally familiar and emotionally significant historical figure. Results highlight the importance of pedagogically meaningful content and suggest the potential of persona-based chatbots to enhance student motivation.