Students' Attitudes Towards the Integration of AI in Higher Education: Perceptions and Challenges in Mauritius
Résumé
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming higher education by improving learning experiences, automating administrative tasks, and providing personalized support to students. However, research on students' attitudes towards AI remains limited, particularly in developing countries like Mauritius. This study examines students' familiarity with AI tools, their perceptions of AI's impact on education, and the key challenges in its adoption. A mixedmethods approach was used, incorporating a structured questionnaire to gather comprehensive insights. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Findings indicate that while students acknowledge AI’s potential in education, they express concerns regarding accessibility, ethical implications, and institutional preparedness. Furthermore, many students lack awareness of AI's role in their academic and professional futures, highlighting the need for targeted AI education initiatives. The study recommends integrating AI literacy programs within university curricula, ensuring equitable access to AI tools, and establishing clear ethical guidelines for AI use in education. Additionally, universities should involve students in AI policy development to promote comprehensive decision-making. These insights contribute to ongoing discussions on AI adoption in higher education, providing a foundation for further research that includes faculty and administrative perspectives to develop a holistic AI integration framework.
