AI through the eyes of university students: benefits, concerns and possible challenges
The article discusses the issues related to the application of artificial intelligence (AI) within the environment of the senior bachelor's and master's degree students of different universities. To that end the method of questionnaire was implemented based on the online test constructor Testmoz, which comprised 10 questions of both closed and open-ended types. The observations and conclusions presented are based on the results of analyzing students' perceptions and usage patterns of neural network-based applications, in particular in English studies. Assignments on developing students’ competences in mastering a foreign language are exemplified.
The study shows how often, to what extent and which tools they rely on, how much AI affects students' learning and performance, and what their concerns are in terms of its increasing integration into education. The peculiar features of chatbots as the most popular “assistants” in learning are considered, with a special emphasis on Chat GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer); according to students’ evidence, it is in high demand in carrying out various academic and research tasks.
In addition, the study analyzes the challenges that teachers are facing and those that will have to address, such as ensuring fair assessment, addressing issues of trust and credibility, and adapting to the changing educational landscape heavily influenced by AI. The results of the study emphasize the need for a balanced approach to the use of neural network technology in education, taking into careful consideration ethics, data privacy, and the importance of maintaining critical thinking skills.
Parshutina, G.A., & Kamaletdinova, S.M. (2024). AI through the eyes of university students: benefits, concerns and possible challenges. Issues of Applied Linguistics, 55, 98-124. https://doi.org/10.25076/vpl.55.05