Analysis of Factors Affecting Writing Perception and ChatGPT Use Among Chungnam University Students: Exploring the Educational Applicability of AI Tools

Objectives This study aims to analyze various background factors influencing the perceptions of writing and the utility, necessity, practicality, and satisfaction with ChatGPT of university students. In addition, It can evaluate the potential of AI tools like ChatGPT in enhancing the writing skills of university students. Methods The survey was conducted among 338 university students in Chungcheongnam-do, and data were analyzed using the SPSS/Win 23.0 statistical software. The several analysis were required such as frequency analysis, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), reliability analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis (structural equation modeling). Results The study found that female students perceive the importance of writing and have higher satisfaction with ChatGPT compared to male students. Humanities students rated ChatGPT's utility, practicality, and satisfaction higher than their counterparts in the sciences. And, fourth-year students showed higher writing self-efficacy, compared with the case of other years. The perception of writing importance had a significantly positive impact on all factors, including ChatGPT expectations, utility, necessity, practicality, and satisfaction. Writing self-efficacy affected ChatGPT expectations, and writing task efficacy positively influenced both ChatGPT expectations and practicality. Conclusions This study confirmed the potential of AI tools contributes the improvement of university students' writing skills and highlights the need for educational strategies. The findings suggest that students' perceptions of writing play a crucial role in the effective use of AI tools like ChatGPT. Therefore, the educational programs should emphasize the importance of writing and aim to boost students' confidence in their writing abilities, thereby supporting the full potential of AI tools like ChatGPT.