Student Perceptions and Engagement with Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education is reshaping student learning experiences, academic engagement, and institutional delivery. This study explores how students perceive and engage with AI tools within educational environments, focusing on both opportunities and challenges. Using primary data collected from 100 students, statistical techniques such as ANOVA and multiple regression were applied through SPSS V-15 to analyze factors influencing student engagement. Findings reveal that while students largely acknowledge the advantages of AI for personalized learning and support, concerns remain over data privacy, system bias, and lack of human interaction. This paper recommends inclusive AI policies and increased student readiness for future AI-driven education. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Student Engagement, Higher Education, AI Tools, Learning Analytics, Educational Technology, SPSS