Acceptance and Usage Patterns of Generative Artificial Intelligence Among Higher Education Students

The present study aims to investigate acceptance levels and usage patterns of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) among higher education students. A survey was conducted among 318 students enrolled at a public university in Türkiye to collect data. The data were collected using the Generative Artificial Intelligence Acceptance Scale and a Personal Information Form, and analysed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and correlation analysis. The findings indicated that students in higher education generally exhibit high acceptance of GenAI technologies. Over half of the students reported using at least one GenAI tool, with ChatGPT being the most commonly used. The results further showed no significant differences in GenAI acceptance between male and female students, nor based on students’ grade point averages or academic year. However, a significant difference was observed between undergraduate and associate students in terms of social influence scores. The high GenAI acceptance levels among students highlight the necessity of establishing guidelines to ensure its ethical, effective, and responsible use. The findings provide valuable insights for educators and administrators offering guidance for the informed adoption and implementation of GenAI tools in educational settings.