Utilizing Google NotebookLM in Teaching and Research at Ho Chi Minh City University of Physical Education and Sports

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution and the unprecedented proliferation of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) have catalyzed a profound transformation within the global higher education landscape. Specialized academic institutions, particularly those focusing on interdisciplinary fields such as pedagogical theory and movement science, are confronting significant challenges associated with digital transformation and information overload. This research critically examines the application of Google NotebookLM—an advanced, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)-based language model—in optimizing teaching methodologies and scientific research workflows at Ho Chi Minh City University of Physical Education and Sports (UPES). Unlike conventional large language models that are prone to algorithmic “hallucinations,” NotebookLM leverages an expansive context window and strict data grounding to ensure high academic integrity and transparent citation mechanisms. Through a comprehensive conceptual analysis drawing upon contemporary educational technology frameworks, this paper explores the platform’s multimodal pedagogical capabilities, notably the Audio Overview feature, which facilitates dynamic, dialogue-based learning tailored to diverse cognitive preferences. Furthermore, the study outlines a systematic, four-step methodological workflow for researchers to streamline literature reviews. Concurrently, it provides a rigorous epistemological critique of the tool’s intrinsic limitations, specifically addressing intellectual property vulnerabilities, the potential erosion of proactive cognitive engagement, and the risks of algorithmic bias stemming from frequency heuristics. Ultimately, this paper proposes strategic recommendations for cultivating an “Active Learning Ecosystem” and optimizing academic literature syntheses, thereby contributing to the comprehensive digital transformation objectives at UPES in the era of artificial intelligence.