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AI at universities: Students demand more support and clear guidelines!
A study by the University of Konstanz examines the use of AI by students: benefits, risks and perspectives in everyday university life.
AI at universities: Students demand more support and clear guidelines!
A current study by the Working Group on Higher Education Research (AGH). University of Konstanz deals with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) at German universities. At the end of 2024, over 2,000 students stated how often they use AI in their everyday studies and for what purposes. The results show that the majority of respondents view AI tools as useful, but use them carefully and question their use critically.
What is particularly noteworthy is that almost 90% of students have already had experience with ChatGPT. In contrast, only 20% use other AI tools. The most common use of AI is among computer science students, while there is lower use, particularly in the fields of medicine, art and law. The advantages of using AI include faster processing of tasks, easier handling of challenging topics and easier knowledge acquisition.
Challenges and risks of AI use
Despite the advantages mentioned, students also express concerns. Almost half of them see the risk of losing their ability to create their own texts. Critical aspects such as the susceptibility to errors, potential false statements and the risk of fraud are a serious concern for many. In addition, universities do not feel sufficiently committed to supporting the use of AI tools, although many have already published guidelines on the use of AI.
Another aspect is that students' approval of using AI is variable. While they largely rate the support for students positively, they are skeptical about its use to support university staff. Many want a learning environment in which digital teaching is combined with face-to-face teaching, with AI seen as an aid in the preparation of assignments without replacing in-person study groups.
International perspectives on AI in higher education
Mirroring the German study results, artificial intelligence is also viewed as a “game changer” for higher education in other countries. The Austrian Education Minister Martin Polaschek cites a study that provides information about the use of AI in higher education. This study, which was carried out on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research, relates to the use of AI in the everyday study and work lives of students, teachers and university management.
The study, conducted from September 2023 to September 2024, asked around 5,000 participants for their opinions and shows that all surveyed groups recognize the positive impact of AI chatbots on learning outcomes. However, there are also concerns about the use of AI in exams and theses. A comprehensive AI strategy and changed examination conditions are the focus of these surveys.
In addition, in EU JRC Science Policy Report stated that the education sector is greatly affected by technologies such as AI. Educational sciences in particular have to deal with the positive and negative effects of these technologies. Despite the risks and challenges associated with implementing AI, research sees great potential. AI can help increase efficiency and create personalized learning opportunities.
Overall, it shows that the use of AI at universities not only brings with it opportunities, but also significant challenges. Further research and a sound strategy are needed to fully exploit the potential of AI in higher education while maintaining the value of human interaction and creative thinking.