Adoption and Use of Generative AI Tools among College Students in Kashmir: Implications for Academic Libraries and Information Services

Abstract

Higher education has seen a significant shift towards using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), which has revolutionized student learning and behavior by significantly improving their ability to engage with information. The effects of Generative AI tools on academic libraries are investigated in a study conducted among undergraduate college students in Kashmir. Google Forms was employed to implement a questionnaire that provided measurable research findings. In the study, undergraduate students from degree colleges in Kashmir were observed to adopt and use Generative AI tools. The analysis of 172 valid responses was carried out using descriptive statistics, with the data being analysed using frequencies and percentages, and then presented in tables and figures. The results show that many students are familiar with Generative AI tools and ChatGPT is the most popular plateform. Most of the students use Generative AI mainly for learning new concepts, studying to clear exams and doing homework. Additionally, students indicate that Generative AI can be beneficial in terms of improving learning efficiency and reducing time-wasting. Also, most respondents believed that academic libraries should be a key factor in improving literacy on AI by providing instruction and knowledge about the responsible and ethical use of Generative AI technologies. The study suggests that academic libraries should enhance their AI literacy programmes and user education programmes to address the growing presence of Generative AI in student academic activities. The outcomes provide valuable information for librarians, teachers, and policy makers on how to make the use of Generative AI more responsibly in higher education.