Awareness, Usage and Benefits of Artificial Intelligence for Instructional Purposes among Undergraduate students in the Nigerian Universities

Abstract

This study assessed the awareness, usage, and benefits of artificial intelligence for instructional purposes among undergraduate students in Nigerian universities. The study was motivated by the increasing integration of AI technologies into higher education and the need to understand the extent to which undergraduate students are aware of, use, benefit from, and experience challenges associated with AI-supported teaching and learning. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The sample size of 412 students was selected using Taro Yamane’s determination Table. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and the instrument was subjected to appropriate validation, and a reliability coefficient of .76 was obtained. The data collected were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, mean and standard deviation for the research questions. The findings revealed that undergraduate students demonstrated a high level of awareness of AI tools and made substantial use of such tools for academic activities. The findings further showed that students perceived AI as beneficial to instruction through improved understanding of course concepts, enhanced engagement and motivation, and increased academic efficiency. The study therefore recommends that universities strengthen ICT infrastructure and internet access, provide continuous AI and digital-literacy training for students and lecturers, integrate appropriate AI applications into teaching and learning, develop clear institutional guidelines for responsible AI use, and provide adequate institutional support to promote effective, equitable and responsible adoption of AI in Nigerian universities.