College Students' Use and Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence (AI): A Survey Study

Abstract: Data from 296 college students were analyzed to examine their use and perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. A diverse sample across different academic majors reported relatively pervasive use of AI tools. Almost 80% reported using voice assistants such as Alexa, Google, and SIRI. Nearly three-fourths reported using ChatGPT, one of the most popular AI tools. Uses ranged from writing- (54%) and academic-assistance (53%) to cheating (10%). AI users differed significantly from non-users in terms of perceived productivity, efficiency, and trust of AI tools, in keeping with prevailing theory. Implications for future policy, practice, and research are highlighted.