The Role of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Enhancing Research Quality: Perspectives of Graduate Education Students at King Khalid University, Abha

Abstract

The study aimed to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in enhancing the quality of scientific research from the perspective of graduate education students at King Khalid University in Abha, as well as to identify the challenges they face in using these tools. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted, and a questionnaire was administered to a sample of 435 master’s and doctoral students. The findings revealed positive perceptions regarding the role and effectiveness of AI tools in supporting scientific research, particularly in (1) reducing effort and time, (2) improving accuracy, and (3) fostering innovation. However, several challenges were identified, including ethical concerns and difficulties in understanding and applying AI tools effectively. Statistically significant differences were found based on study level, field of specialization, and level of AI knowledge, with results favoring doctoral students, those in Curriculum and Instruction, Psychology, and Guidance and Counseling specializations, as well as students with higher levels of AI knowledge. The study recommended providing specialized training programs targeting students with limited AI knowledge and developing institutional policies that promote the ethical and effective use of AI tools across all stages of scientific research