Universities widely utilize the top AI tool, ChatGPT, as their preferred choice.
In a recent nationwide survey conducted by researchers at the University of Konstanz, it was found that the majority of students are using AI tools, particularly ChatGPT, for assistance with homework. This trend reflects a broader global shift in the use of AI in academic settings.
The study, led by Anna Marczuk and the AGH team, surveyed over 2000 students across the country. It revealed that almost 90 percent of respondents have tried ChatGPT at least once or use it regularly. However, it's worth noting that only one in five students uses tools other than ChatGPT, sometimes as an addition.
While AI tools are considered useful, the study also found that their use is critically questioned. Critical assessments of AI were consistent, regardless of how often the student uses AI in their daily life. This raises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of AI, as these models can produce plausible but incorrect or misleading answers.
Ethical and plagiarism issues are another concern. The use of AI-generated content for homework may challenge academic integrity policies, as it can be unclear how much is the student's own work. There are also worries that over-reliance on AI might impair students' own understanding and critical thinking development.
Regulatory and transparency concerns are also a factor. With new AI regulations in the EU, transparency about AI usage and data sources is increasingly mandated, potentially affecting how students are allowed to use these tools.
Despite these concerns, the study found that students use AI tools thoughtfully. They are aware of the possibility of errors, false statements, and cheating opportunities in AI. Interestingly, students of computer science are at the forefront in the use of AI, followed by business and engineering sciences. A significantly lower usage of AI was found in fields such as medicine, art history, and law.
It's important to note that the study did not find that AI tools are currently being used to grade homework assignments. The study was not about the use of ChatGPT in specific, but rather a broader examination of students' use of AI tools in their academic work.
The University of Konstanz, known for its active involvement in AI-related research and collaborations, has not yet revealed unique regulations or adapted educational policies based on this study. However, the university's growing integration of AI into the academic environment suggests a commitment to exploring and navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by these tools.
[1] Marczuk, A., & AGH team. (2024). AI in Homework: A Nationwide Study on Students' Use of AI Tools. University of Konstanz. [2] European Commission. (2021). Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Artificial Intelligence (Artificial Intelligence Act). Brussels, 21.4.2021. COM(2021) 274 final.
- The management of student academic work is considering the implications of artificial-intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT, following the findings of a study at the University of Konstanz that show a high usage of such tools among students.
- As the use of technology continues to expand in academic settings, including the application of artificial intelligence, it is crucial for institutions to prioritize transparency and ethical guidelines to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and academic integrity of AI-generated work.
