Journal of Computer Assisted Learning 2025
Deconstructing University Learners' Adoption Intention Towards AIGC Technology: A Mixed-Methods Study Using ChatGPT as an Example
Corresponding author: Xiaojiao Chen
First published online: 2025-01-15.Issue publication: 2025-02.
Research summary
This mixed-methods study examines university learners' intentions to adopt AIGC technology using ChatGPT as its example. Exploratory activities and interviews inform a decision framework, followed by fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis of 233 valid questionnaires. Six configurations are associated with high adoption intention, with AI literacy and perceived behavioural control playing prominent roles.
Study design.
Sequential exploratory and configurational analysis using interviews and fsQCA of 233 valid questionnaires.
Abstract
Background ChatGPT, as a cutting‐edge technology in education, is set to significantly transform the educational landscape, raising concerns about technological ethics and educational equity. Existing studies have not fully explored learners' intentions to adopt artificial intelligence generated content (AIGC) technology, highlighting the need for deeper insights into the factors influencing adoption. Objectives This study aims to investigate higher education learners' adoption intentions towards AIGC technology, with a focus on understanding the underlying reasons and future prospects for its application in education. Methods The research is divided into two phases. First, an exploratory analysis involving practical activities and interviews develops an action decision framework for AIGC adoption. Second, a confirmatory analysis using fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis on 233 valid questionnaires identifies six configurations associated with high adoption intentions, emphasising the roles of AI literacy and perceived behavioural control. Results and Conclusions The study reveals key factors influencing AIGC adoption, including the importance of AI literacy and perceived behavioural control. It provides actionable insights for educators and learners to prepare for and effectively integrate AIGC technology, ensuring equitable and adaptive educational practices.
Research context
Which combinations of factors are associated with university students' intention to adopt generative AI?
Use this study for learner adoption intentions, AI literacy and configurational explanations of technology use. Adoption intention is the outcome examined in the questionnaire analysis.
AI literacy · ChatGPT adoption · fsQCA · higher education
中文研究介绍
研究以ChatGPT为例，通过实践活动与访谈构建高校学习者采纳AIGC的决策框架，再对233份有效问卷开展模糊集定性比较分析，识别与高采纳意愿相关的六种组态，突出AI素养与感知行为控制的作用。
Read and cite
Wang, C., Chen, X., Hu, Z., Jin, S., & Gu, X. (2025). Deconstructing University Learners' Adoption Intention Towards AIGC Technology: A Mixed-Methods Study Using ChatGPT as an Example. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 41(1), e13117. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcal.13117