Investigating Undergraduate Students' Acceptance of ChatGPT for Learning: A Technology Acceptance Model Perspective

With the widespread adoption of ChatGPT in higher education, understanding students' acceptance of this technology has become increasingly important. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study aims to explore the acceptance intention and influencing factors of Chinese undergraduates using ChatGPT in their learning. Data were collected from 397 undergraduates at a public university through a questionnaire survey and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings reveal three key points: (1) Undergraduates exhibit a "high intention to use – cautious attitude" toward ChatGPT, reflecting a rational balance between technological value and ethical risks; (2) Perceived Usefulness (PU) is the dominant factor influencing acceptance intention, but it also amplifies concerns about potential misuse, highlighting the dual nature of technology acceptance and ethical awareness; (3) Higher education institutions are advised to establish AI ethics-oriented usage guidelines to promote the responsible application of ChatGPT. This study not only extends the application of TAM in educational contexts but also provides empirical evidence for higher education institutions in formulating AI technology usage policies.