3 than younger students. This trend may be attributed to the more complex academic demands faced by older students, who might find greater utility in AI tools like ChatGPT for tackling advanced coursework and research tasks. Moreover, the country/region of origin plays a role in the engagement levels with ChatGPT. Students from Mainland China demonstrated higher usage rates and more positive perceptions of the tool compared to those from Hong Kong. This disparity could reflect varying educational cultures and levels of technological acceptance between the two regions, suggesting that Mainland Chinese students might be more accustomed to integrating digital tools into their learning processes. AI Literacy A noteworthy finding is that 82.36% of respondents identified themselves as AI literate, indicating a foundational understanding of AI principles and applications. This high level of AI literacy among students is crucial, as it supports effective engagement with generative AI tools like ChatGPT. Students who possess AI literacy are more likely to utilize these tools optimally, enhancing their learning experiences and academic performance. Recommendations Enhance AI Literacy Programs To maximize the benefits of generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, universities should implement mandatory AI literacy courses for all students. These courses should emphasize practical applications of GenAI tools within academic contexts, equipping students with the necessary skills to leverage these technologies effectively. Given that 82.36% of students at HKUST identified as AI literate, integrating AI literacy into the curriculum can further enhance this foundational knowledge, ensuring that all students are prepared for an increasingly AI-driven workforce. Develop Tailored Support Recognizing the higher engagement levels among research postgraduate students, universities should develop specialized resources and training that cater specifically to this demographic. These students, who often face complex research tasks, can greatly benefit from targeted support that enhances their use of ChatGPT for academic success. By providing tailored workshops, mentorship programs, and access to advanced AI tools, institutions can foster a more supportive environment that encourages the effective use of GenAI technologies in research and professional development. Promote Inclusive Engagement It is essential to promote initiatives that ensure diverse demographic groups, particularly female students, feel confident in their AI literacy and can effectively utilize GenAI tools. The findings indicate a gender gap in perceptions of the impact of ChatGPT, with male students reporting stronger beliefs in its benefits. Universities should create programs that specifically address these disparities, such as mentorship opportunities, workshops, and awareness campaigns aimed at increasing female students' engagement with AI tools. By fostering an inclusive environment, institutions can ensure that all students, regardless of their background, can fully benefit from the advantages that generative AI offers in higher education. Note: This figure illustrates the relationships between ChatGPT experiences, usage frequency, intention to use as a learning tool, perceptions of impact of ChatGPT on learning outcomes and career, and the moderating effects of AI literacy among HKUST students. (Source Authors) Figure 2: ChatGPT usage, experiences, intentions, AI Public Policy BULLETIN Embracing Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools in Higher Education: A Survey Study at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
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