AI as a Study Companion: An Exploration of Student Experiences at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia

The paper presents the results of the research study conducted on students at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in Zagreb (FHSS), Croatia, at the end of 2024, focusing on their experiences with artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and its use in academic activities, students' trust in AI, and the future use of AI by students. While over 81 % of respondents reported using AI tools for study purposes, more than 89% did not receive any education about AI and expressed a need for such education. Generative AI tools for text creation are the most frequently used type of AI tools, but students still require additional knowledge to use them effectively. AI tools are also utilized for seeking advice, finding information, being available 24/7, and assisting in writing student papers, though not yet on a massive scale. Teachers remain the most trusted source for information and for recommending AI tools. Despite known shortcomings of AI tools such as content errors, potential costs and ethical or privacy concerns, students expressed their intention to continue using AI tools in the future.