KNOWLEDGE AND ADOPTION OF AI RESEARCH ASSISTANTS AMONG POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN TARABA STATE UNIVERSITY JALINGO

Abstract

Abstract

This study investigates the knowledge and adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) research assistants such as ChatGPT, Elicit, and Scholarcy among postgraduate students of Taraba State University, Jalingo. The study was guided by the Diffusion of Innovation Theory, which explains how new technologies spread among users based on perceived usefulness, ease of use, and institutional support. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from a sample of 358 postgraduate students drawn from a population of 3,367 across all programmes in the College of Postgraduate Studies. The findings revealed that a majority of the students were familiar with AI research assistants and actively used them for tasks such as literature review, idea generation, and academic writing. However, challenges such as inadequate training, limited internet access, and unclear institutional policies hindered optimal use. The study concludes that while postgraduate students demonstrate a growing interest and reliance on AI tools for research, institutional support, digital literacy programmes, and ethical guidelines are crucial to promote responsible and effective use. It recommends that universities should integrate AI literacy and ethical standards into postgraduate training, enhance infrastructure, and encourage supervisors to support AI-assisted academic work to strengthen research quality and innovation.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, AI Research Assistants, Postgraduate Students, Knowledge, Adoption, Taraba State University, Diffusion of Innovation Theory