Usage of AI tools by engineering students on CEG campus, Anna University

The use of AI tools by students at Anna University’s CEG Campus plays a crucial role in transforming the learning experience, in line with global advancements in technology and pedagogy. This study aims to explore the extent and nature of AI tool usage among engineering students, focusing on both circuit and non-circuit branches, through a quantitative case study design. The research involves 100 respondents drawn from various engineering departments, with data collected through a survey using Google Forms. This survey seeks to gain comprehensive insights into student perceptions, challenges, benefits, and patterns of AI tool usage in academic contexts. The findings reveal that the most frequently used AI tools among students are ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Grammarly. Students recognize these tools for their significant contributions to programming or coding assistance, enhancing writing skills, and facilitating the learning of new subjects. In particular, ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot were highlighted for their ability to improve writing and content creation tasks, helping students gain a deeper understanding of complex concepts and ideas. Despite these advantages, some students expressed concerns that the use of AI tools may compromise the originality and creativity inherent in their academic work. These findings suggest that while AI tools offer substantial educational benefits, there is a need to address the potential drawbacks to ensure that students maintain a balance between using AI assistance and preserving their creative input.