A survey of Chinese HSS students reveals GenAI's perceived impact on learning, performance, and challenges, guiding integration strategies.

In plain terms

Generative AI (GenAI), like ChatGPT, is significantly changing how students learn, especially in subjects like humanities and social sciences (HSS) where writing and interpretation are common. However, there's limited research on its specific effects on these students. To address this, researchers surveyed a large number of HSS students in China. They investigated how students use GenAI, its perceived effects on their learning processes and academic performance, the challenges they encounter, and their preferred ways for GenAI to be included in their courses. Over half the students felt GenAI improved their motivation, independent thinking, and creativity, and a notable majority reported gains in academic performance, though this might partly reflect assessment limitations. Students also raised concerns about ethical use, privacy, accuracy limitations, and becoming too reliant on GenAI, preferring optional course integration with practical training.