Exploring Students' Familiarity, Usage Patterns, and Perceptions of Generative AI Tools in Education

This study explores students' familiarity, usage patterns, and perceptions of Generative AI (GenAI) tools, focusing on their potential applications in education. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 167 respondents to assess familiarity with AI, GenAI, and specific interfaces such as ChatGPT, Dall-E and Google Gemini. Findings indicate that while most respondents are somewhat familiar with AI and GenAI, familiarity with specific tools varies significantly, with ChatGPT being the most recognized and used. Text-based tools dominate usage, primarily for tasks like explaining concepts, summarizing content, and translation. Challenges encountered include issues with accuracy, ease of use, and instruction specificity. Despite these challenges, respondents identify personalized learning resources, automated grading systems, and virtual tutors as the most valuable educational applications. The study highlights the transformative potential of GenAI in education while underscoring the need for improved tool design and expanded training to optimize its adoption.