Uses and Gratifications Approach to Student Use of AI for Fulfilling Academic Needs

Abstract

This research investigates the use of AI for educational purposes by students at the International Islamic University Islamabad from a uses and gratification approach. Based on gratification theory, the study analyzes how student use AI to fulfill their individual education requirement. A 250 IIUI students, conveniently sampled to ensure representation from computer related departments. The (SPSS) was used to analyze descriptive statistics by quantitative research techniques through a well-designed survey approach. Result shows wide gap in formal AI learning, with relatively few participants instructed via formal courses and many others through self-taught experience. Most possessed basic or moderate AI capabilities, with advanced comprehension being rare. Participants used resources such as ChatGPT and virtual assistants very often, but specialized platforms (e.g., machine learning platforms) were utilized sparingly. Others incorporated several AI tools like writing assistants and plagiarism detector into their academic work, indicating a functional but unequal use of AI.