Integrating Generative AI in Contemporary Research Writing: Exploring Postgraduates’ Knowledge and Willingness to Use GenAI in the Upper East Region of Ghana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58425/ajt.v3i1.301Keywords:
Generative artificial intelligence, postgraduate education, AI tools for research, technological adoption in academia, benefits of generative AIAbstract
Aim: In the 21st century era where academic research boundaries are increasingly blurred by technological innovations, it is critical to understand postgraduate students' willingness to embrace Generative AI as a research ally to reshape their scholarly work and lift their academic writing experience to newer heights. This study assessed postgraduate students' knowledge and willingness to use Generative AI (GenAI) as a research tool.
Methods: This study was quantitative and a cross-sectional survey research design was employed to collect primary data from a sample of 238 selected from an accessible population of 588. The sample members were considered using a convenient sampling method. Data were collected through structured closed-ended questionnaire instruments which were self-designed and piloted. The questionnaires' Cronbach's reliability coefficient was 0. 913: This value reflects a good internal consistency, as well as serves to show the robustness of the instrument to measure the objectives of this study. The study used a period of 3 weeks to collect, clean, and analyze the study data using descriptive statistics and simple linear regression analysis (SPSS 20.0).
Results: The study showed that postgraduates have a moderate to high level of knowledge (M 3.189 - 3.706) and willingness to use GenAI (M 2.966 - 3.349). A simple linear regression analysis showed that knowledge level significantly predicted willingness to use Generative AI for research purposes, (r² =. 023, B = 0.12, p = 0.021).
Recommendation: Educational institutions should implement targeted training programs on GenAI tools to enhance postgraduate students’ competency and confidence in using these tools for research.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Enoch Kabinaa Suglo, Abubakari Mejira, Norbert Bayor, Iddrisu Nyemewero, Amoah Adongo Godfred
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