Generative AI in Higher Education: A Student Perspective

The integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools into higher education is rapidly transforming the learning experience. This study investigates university students' experiences and perceptions of generative AI use in their studies. A survey was conducted to explore how AI tools are utilized, what attitudes students have toward them, what concerns and expectations they express, and what impact AI has on learning. Findings indicate that most students use generative AI chatbots for brainstorming, summarizing, and simplifying study materials, while fewer rely on it for completing assignments or preparing for exams. Although AI is generally perceived as useful and easy to use, issues such as misinformation, lack of proper citations, and potential negative effects on critical thinking were frequently mentioned. Also, concerns have been raised about potential overreliance and the ethical implications of AI-generated content. The analysis also revealed that younger students and those with more experience using AI tend to evaluate its usefulness more highly and students who demonstrate a greater willingness to use generative AI tools in learning tend to rate their knowledge and skills in using AI for learning more highly. As universities navigate on rapidly evolving landscape, there is a pressing need for academically rigorous and evidence-based insights to guide policies and practices. The findings inform educators in developing guidelines for responsible AI use, ensuring that students benefit from AI-driven tools while maintaining academic integrity and critical thinking skills.