Artificial Intelligence Academic Usage and Its Impact on Students: A Survey-Based Study

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly emerged as a transformative change in higher education, reshaping how students learn, solve problems, and engage with academic tasks. From generating content and assisting with coding to providing personalized learning support, AI-powered tools are increasingly becoming integral part to the academic experience. AI tools such as ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Grammarly, Claude are significantly influencing the academic environment in engineering education. The present study investigates the usage patterns, perceived benefits, and educational impact of AI tools among engineering students. A survey was done in engineering colleges and data were collected through purposive sampling from 96 engineering students through a structured questionnaire titled AI Academic Usage and Impact Scale (AAUIS). The collected data was analysed using excel, the findings reveal that the majority of students use AI tools daily or several times a week for learning technical concepts, project documentation, coding support, brainstorming, and assignment completion. Most students felt that AI tools help them learn more efficiently by saving time, simplifying complex concepts, and supporting their academic work. Many reported that these tools make studying, coding, and completing assignments easier and more productive. At the same time, some students expressed concerns that excessive reliance on AI may reduce independent thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The study suggests that AI has become an important part of engineering students’ learning experiences; however, its use should be balanced with critical thinking, responsible practices, and clear ethical guidelines to ensure that technology supports, rather than replaces, meaningful learning.