Perceptions of ChatGPT and the Complexity of Its Impact Among Higher Education Students: Evidence Across Ten Countries of Latin America and Europe

Background/purpose. ChatGPT, an AI-based tool, has significantly impacted higher education by enhancing the learning and teaching experience. This study aimed to analyze students’ perceptions of ChatGPT’s role in higher education, focusing on five dimensions: perceived abilities, ethical concerns, satisfaction, academic impact, and skills development. Understanding these perceptions is crucial to harnessing their potential while addressing associated challenges. Materials/methods. The study surveyed 4,005 university students from ten countries in Latin America and Europe using a structured questionnaire. Data collection focused on quantitative measures, including correlations between ChatGPT usage and academic performance, skills development, and ethical concerns. Results. The findings revealed a generally positive assessment of ChatGPT's capabilities. A strong correlation was found between using ChatGPT and improved academic performance (r=0.845, p<.001) as well as the development of advanced skills like academic writing and critical thinking (r=0.720, p<.001). Satisfaction varied by institutional context, with private universities reporting higher satisfaction levels. Ethical concerns, such as plagiarism and misinformation, exhibited more dispersed responses, highlighting the need for strategies promoting responsible use. Conclusion. The study underscores ChatGPT’s potential as a transformative resource in higher education, particularly in enhancing academic outcomes and skill development. However, ethical and pedagogical challenges remain critical to ensuring its responsible integration into educational practices.