Factors Affecting Acceptance and Concerns Regarding Generative Artificial Intelligence Use for Learning Among Undergraduates

Abstract

This research aims to study factors affecting acceptance and concerns regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) for learning among undergraduates, and to examine the relationship between acceptance and concerns about GenAI use for learning. The participants of 356 undergraduate students at Prince of Songkla University, Surat Thani Campus, were selected by employing voluntary-based random sampling. The research instrument was a questionnaire assessing the participants' acceptance and concerns of GenAI use for learning, with a reliability coefficient of 0.95. Data were collected using a Microsoft Forms questionnaire distributed via social media channels during the second semester of the academic year 2024. The statistics employed for data analysis included percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient to examine the relationship between factors affecting acceptance and concerns regarding GenAI use for learning. The findings revealed that the overall acceptance of GenAI use for learning among the participants was at the highest level (M = 4.30). The three aspects with the highest ratings included the acceptance in perceived ease of use (M = 4.37), acceptance in perceived benefits (M = 4.30), and attitudes towards use (M = 4.24) respectively. The overall level of concern about using GenAI for learning was at the high level (M = 3.65). The study also found a positive, statistically significant relationship between acceptance and concerns about using GenAI for learning at the .01 level. The findings from this study can be considered as a guideline for the development and enhancement of GenAI use to promote effective and responsible learning in the digital era.