The Degree of Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence "GAI" Applications by Faculty Members and their Assistants at the University of the Saba Region in University Education 10.35781/1637-000-150-001

Abstract

Abstract: The study aimed to investigate the extent to which faculty members and their assistants at Seeb Region University use generative artificial intelligence (GAI) applications in higher education, as well as the barriers to their use. The descriptive survey method was employed. The researchers developed a questionnaire consisting of two main sections: (1) Usage level and (2) Usage barriers. The first section was divided into five subdomains covering the use of GAI applications for generating texts, presentations, mind maps, images, and videos, and included 37 items with an option allowing the addition of any applications used by faculty members and their assistants. The second axis consisted of (10) items, and the instrument was administered to a sample of (123) faculty members and their assistants at the university. The main findings indicated that the degree of use of these applications in higher education was generally very low, both overall and across all subdomains. No additional generative artificial intelligence applications beyond those listed in the questionnaire were reported. Moreover, the obstacles to using these applications among the sample ranged from high to moderate. The results also revealed no statistically significant differences in the use of these applications attributable to the variables of gender, college, or academic rank. Keywords: generative artificial intelligence applications; higher education; Saba Region; faculty members and their assistants.