Navigating the Influence of Ai: A Qualitative Exploration of Chatgpt Usage Among Tertiary Level Students

ChatGPT is a comprehensive AI tool created by OpenAI, utilizing deep learning and natural language processing to provide human-like responses in advanced conversational contexts. This study examined the experiences of tertiary level students and offered useful insights into the impact of Artificial Intelligence technologies, such as ChatGPT, on academic learning outcomes. This research employed phenomenological inquiry and purposive sampling methods. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. The data analysis identified three themes in tertiary-level students’ experiences in using ChatGPT in their academics: usage for academic assistance, efficiency and accessibility, enhancing academic output, and addressing challenges. Three themes emerged from the perceived effects of ChatGPT usage on tertiary-level students’ academic performance: over-reliance on ChatGPT, positive academic impacts, and balancing AI and traditional methods. Also, three themes emerged from insights of the tertiary level students on the role of AI in education: artificial intelligence (AI) as a learning aid, ethical and responsible use of AI, and AI’s role in enhancing collaboration. The study suggests that tertiary-level students must be educated on the ethical considerations of using AI and develop practical applications within the limitations of academic integrity. Instructors should foster an environment where students can critically evaluate the content and learn to differentiate AI-generated material from original ideas. Higher education institutions should play a leading role in formulating and enforcing ethical guidelines for the usage of AI so that it would be clear how AI usage would be aligned with academic integrity, privacy standards, and responsible learning practices. These would be communicated to faculty and students for their ethical use of AI.