Rising Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Higher ‎Education: A Qualitative Study on Its Application by Al-‎Quds University Students in the Academic Practices

This research aimed to examine the role of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in student learning at Al-Quds University, focusing on the unique experiences and insights provided by participants. The researcher conducted ten semi-structured interviews with students who were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Adopting a phenomenological approach, the study aimed to capture the participants’ lived experiences with AI tools. The data were analyzed using MAXQDA (2020), which facilitated the identification of key themes and patterns. The research identifies key themes related to students’ motivations for adopting AI, its integration into academic tasks, and their experiences with these technologies. Participants were strongly motivated to use AI tools to better understand complex subjects, enhance academic performance, and boost creativity in assignments. AI was especially helpful for problem-solving, writing, and language learning, with students providing specific examples of its impact. Students typically chose free AI tools for their convenience and effectiveness, though some invested in paid versions for specialized needs. They also demonstrated awareness of academic integrity, using strategies to verify AI-generated content and avoid plagiarism. The study highlights AI’s role in fostering innovation, as students described how it helped them approach assignments in new ways. The research concludes with recommendations to improve AI integration in higher education, including faculty training, clearer ethical guidelines, and a focus on the educational benefits of AI to enhance learning and student outcomes.