sv

Abstract

This article discusses the relationship between university the use of and perception of generative AI among university students. The study is based on data from a digital survey distributed among students at Södertörn University, which included questions about knowledge, usage, and attitudes towards generative AI, with a particular focus on chatbots (n=418). The results showed that several students use chatbots in their studies for various purposes, such as getting started with writing, proofreading texts, searching for information, or clarifying difficult concepts and texts. At the same time, a majority of respondents indicated that using AI in exams is cheating, that the results are unreliable, and that usage could negatively impact their own learning. Based on this paradox, the article describes chatbots as "an unreliable teacher" and highlights the importance of supporting students in using AI in a constructive and fair way. This involves developing an understanding about the technology behind AI, as well as broad subject knowledge and critical skills.