Transforming research practices: ChatGPT adoption and perceived productivity impact among Aligarh Muslim University scholars

This study examines the adoption, applications, benefits, and challenges of ChatGPT among research scholars at Aligarh Muslim University, offering empirical insights into the integration of generative artificial intelligence within academic research practices. Utilizing a quantitative survey with purposive sampling, data were collected from 191 scholars across diverse disciplinary strata. Findings indicate near-universal awareness of ChatGPT (99.48%) and predominant use of the free version (76.96%), with scholars from the Social Sciences representing the largest adopting group (38.20%). Primary uses included research idea generation (15.95%), knowledge queries (14.88%), and writing assistance (13.19%), framing ChatGPT as a cognitive augmentation tool. Key perceived benefits encompassed creative question formulation (M = 4.04), methodological understanding (M = 4.01), and writing enhancement (M = 4.00), alongside time savings (20.77%). Challenges highlighted response depth limitations (18.34%), accuracy issues (17.75%), over-reliance risks (17.55%), ethical concerns (14.99%), and institutional unreadiness (M = 4.17). Hypothesis testing indicated that ChatGPT adoption is associated with perceived usefulness and the depth of engagement, with trust-related factors acting as moderating variables. These findings are consistent with both technology acceptance and cognitive augmentation theoretical frameworks. Findings underscore rapid individual uptake outpacing institutional support, advocating AI literacy training, ethical governance frameworks, and standardized disclosure protocols to balance productivity gains with research integrity.