Universities' preferred AI chatbot is ChatGPT, achieving widespread adoption.
At the University of Konstanz, students are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) tools into their academic pursuits, particularly in complex fields like quantum technology and interdisciplinary studies. According to a study conducted by the Higher Education Research Group, AI tools are primarily used for initial topic research, text correction, and creating texts [1].
The study, which surveyed over 2000 students nationwide, found that nearly 90% of students have tried ChatGPT at least once or use it regularly [1]. However, only about 20% of students use tools other than ChatGPT, sometimes as an addition [2]. Usage of AI tools is less frequent in fields like medicine, art history, and law [2].
While AI tools are not currently used to write homework or to be graded by AI tools, according to the study, they are met with skepticism due to the possibility of errors, false statements, and cheating opportunities [2]. The survey findings suggest that students who rely heavily on AI may forget how to write their own texts [3].
The study does not specify if the AI tools used by students are limited to ChatGPT, nor does it indicate if AI tools are used for purposes other than writing homework or being graded by AI tools [2]. It also does not indicate if there are any plans for AI tools to be used for grading in the future.
The university announcement, however, highlights that students generally view AI tools as a useful aid [4]. Yet, almost half of the students express concerns about relying too heavily on AI [4].
Beyond the study, concerns that students might have about AI's impact on learning generally revolve around issues like reliance on AI potentially undermining deep learning, ethical considerations, and the trustworthiness of AI outputs. For example, a highlighted issue with AI models—such as vision-language models—not fully understanding linguistic nuances could affect learning accuracy [3].
Thomas Hartung, a professor affiliated with the University of Konstanz, is deeply involved in advancing AI and alternatives to traditional testing methods. His work reflects the university's engagement with AI as a beneficial tool in research, underscoring both opportunities and the need for careful integration of AI into scientific inquiry [4].
In summary, students at the University of Konstanz use AI tools mainly in scientific research and interdisciplinary projects, especially involving complex fields like quantum technology and AI-driven modeling [3][4]. While direct reports on students' concerns are not explicit, general issues include AI's potential accuracy limits and its pedagogical impact (e.g., learning depth, ethical usage), inferred from broader AI challenges reported in academic contexts [3]. The university's approach to AI appears to be one of cautious embrace, acknowledging both the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into academic life.
References:
- The Higher Education Research Group at the University of Konstanz
- Study on AI tool usage among students by the Higher Education Research Group at the University of Konstanz
- Challenges in AI applications and their implications for learning in academic contexts
- University of Konstanz announcement on AI tools usage among students
Management at the University of Konstanz is exploring the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly AI-driven modeling, into the education and self-development of students, especially for complex fields like quantum technology and interdisciplinary studies. This learning process involves the use of AI tools for initial research, text correction, and creating texts. Despite the prevalent usage of ChatGPT among students, only a small percentage are utilizing other AI tools. The educational application of AI tools, aside from academic research, remains less common, with less usage observed in fields like medicine, art history, and law.
A professor affiliated with the University of Konstanz, Thomas Hartung, is deeply invested in advancing AI and alternative testing methods. His work underscores the university's commitment to AI as a beneficial tool not only in research but also in fostering a balanced approach to integrating AI into academic life, acknowledging both its opportunities and challenges.
