Exploring ChatGPT's Potential and Concerns in Higher Education

The present quantitative study investigates the initial application of ChatGPT, an AI-powered chatbot, in higher education. Employing a two-stage survey approach with 133 participants, ChatGPT's awareness, usage patterns, and perceived benefits for educational purposes are assessed. While high awareness was evident, diverse usage patterns and attitude emerged. Most participants engaged with ChatGPT sporadically or not at all, with a minority relying heavily on it, even for homework and exam assistance. Overall responses showed dubious and careful, rather negative attitude towards ChatGPT. However, traditional learning methods remained crucial for the majority, these findings reveal a mixed picture. ChatGPT holds potential to supplement and enhance learning, but it has not replaced traditional methods yet.