Artificial intelligence and its use in university students

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence has been a widely used tool since its inception. In recent years, students have increasingly used it to perform various activities. Research has shown that AI diminishes performance opportunities in various social settings; in academic training, its importance is incalculable. This research aims to comparatively describe university students' attitudes toward and use of artificial intelligence. The research was descriptive-field, using a sample of 102 students intentionally selected from three first-level courses in the Dentistry program (Academic Period A-2025). Instruments were applied to collect data based on students' criteria and attitudes toward or assessment of AI, in addition to observation with a descriptive record that allowed for the evaluation of students' effective use of AI in developing academic assignments. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage analysis) and content analysis. The findings show significant, albeit partial, adoption. While its usefulness in research activities is recognized by perceptions, it does not show the same acceptance for the development of complex tasks among most students. It is also evident that the full potential of AI is not being leveraged, with an emphasis on improving communication skills, and that it is ineffective in its use, lacking critical stances and dependent on the information generated.

Keywords: Ethics, Effectiveness, Academic Tasks, Information, Critical Position