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Use of AI Tools in Academic Writing Among Postgraduates Students in Humanities and Social Sciences in Kenyan Universities: Challenges and Opportunities
Abstract
Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into academic writing presents opportunities and challenges, as use of AI promotes efficiency in knowledge production but also exacerbates existing disparities between developed and developing nations, with developing nations lagging behind in terms of access and the expertise for using them productively. Moreover, while AI tools provide support for innovative research, writing assistance, and data analysis, there are growing concerns about the quality of postgraduate student theses and publications, written using AI tools, as they contain false statements and violate research ethics. Based on survey data and secondary literature, this study investigated the current application of AI tools in academic writing by Humanities and Social Science postgraduate students in a Kenyan university. The study aimed to: establish the uptake and use of AI tools in academic writing, assess student attitudes on using AI tools in academic writing; and explore challenges influencing the use of AI tools in academic writing. The study revealed that students often use AI tools that generate content, provide analysis and paraphrase texts, such as chatGPT, Gemini Grammarly and Quillbot. Students had positive attitudes to adopting AI tools for academic writing, however, they reported limitations in proficient use of AI tools, poor writing and research skills, along with lack of ICT resources and AI tools. It is recommended that for effective integration of AI tools in academic writings, higher education institutions should provide ICT resources, AI tools and offer training in research skills, writing skills and use of AI tools for writing.
PCF11 Sub-Theme: Skills Development Through Lifelong Open Education
Paper ID: 2844
Country
Kenya
Region
Africa
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Adobe PDF, 212.27 KB
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Date
2025-09
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ORCID
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Publisher
Commonwealth of Learning (COL)