AI in German and Austrian Universities: Current Usage and Trends
A substantial number of students utilize artificial intelligence on a daily basis.
Curious about how AI tools like ChatGPT are being used by students in German and Austrian universities? Let's dive in!
AI Changing the Study Game
With AI tools becoming increasingly popular, students are finding it more convenient to save time on lengthy research. According to a study by the Center for Higher Education Development, around two-thirds (65%) of students use AI tools at least once a week, with a quarter (25%) using them daily 1.
AI as a Learning Partner
Students are using AI as a research aid, to sweep through topics quickly. Applications as a tutor or learning partner, as well as for brainstorming ideas, are also common 1. However, the study findings suggest that AI plays a more modest role in text creation or literature research among students 1.
The use of AI appears to vary depending on the field of study, with students in Mechatronics showing the highest proportion of regular AI users 1.
Insights from Austria
In Austria, the usage rate of AI tools among students aged 16–24 is high, with 57% having used generative AI tools in the last three months prior to a survey 1. Among students specifically, the usage rate was even higher, at 76% 1.
Insights from Germany
Specific data on the frequency of AI tool usage among German university students is limited. However, there's a growing interest in adapting AI models like ChatGPT for security-critical applications in Germany 4.
It's unclear from the current data how these developments might influence the educational use of AI in German universities. However, the growing interest suggests that AI may become increasingly prevalent in various sectors, including education.
AI in Education
AI tools are finding a place in educational contexts. They help with tasks like brainstorming essay ideas, checking grammar and spelling, and researching universities 3. As universities cannot prevent the use of AI tools, they are focusing on promoting ethical and effective use to enhance the application process 3.
Technology has become an integral part of the study routine for many students in German and Austrian universities, with artificial-intelligence tools like ChatGPT being extensively used. Similarly, artificial-intelligence is being employed not only as a research aid but also as a learning partner, offering assistance in brainstorming ideas and acting as a tutor in certain educational contexts.
