Global perspectives on students’ use of AI tools in academic writing: An international faculty comparison

Main Article Content

Han Gao
Jinyan Huang
Jai Kumar
Shahbaz Hussain
Thomas Sheeran

Abstract

This study examined university instructors' perceptions of the ethical considerations surrounding students' use of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, in academic writing, with a comparative focus on China, America, Canada, and Pakistan. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research gathered data through a 10-item Likert scale survey and open-ended questions, targeting 266 instructors across 68 universities. The analysis centered on three key themes: ethical responsibilities, academic integrity, and the impact of AI tools on students' originality and critical thinking. Findings revealed significant culture and contextual differences in how instructors view the role of AI in academic settings. Chinese instructors emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and ethical education, while instructors from Americ, Canada, and Pakistan highlighted concerns about academic dishonesty, intellectual property, and the potential for AI tools to hinder critical thinking. Despite these concerns, some instructors acknowledged the potential benefits of AI when used responsibly. The study highlighted the need for clear institutional guidelines and educational policies that address the ethical challenges of AI in academic writing, ensuring that these tools enhance learning outcomes without compromising academic integrity. The findings have significant implications for teachers, students, and institutions in navigating the evolving landscape of AI in higher education.

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Higher Education

References

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