Awareness and utilization of artificial intelligence among full-time students of literature at Kwame Nkrumah University in Zambia

Jive Lubbungu; Pethias Siame

Jive Lubbungu Kwame Nkrumah University, Department of Literature and Languages, Kabwe, Zambia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6562-547X
Pethias Siame Kwame Nkrumah University, Department of Literature and Languages, Kabwe, Zambia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3203-5307

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, awareness, utilization, literature students, Kwame Nkrumah University, Zambia

Abstract

This study explores the awareness and utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among full-time students of Literature at Kwame Nkrumah University (KNU) in Zambia. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the research investigates the students' familiarity with AI concepts, their perceptions of AI's relevance to the field of Literature, and the extent to which AI tools are integrated into their academic pursuits. Employing a qualitative approach, the study gathered and analyzed data through interviews with 30 purposefully selected participants supplemented by questionnaires distributed to 20 randomly selected students. A total of 50 3^rd and 4^th year students of Literature were targeted. The objectives of the study were to establish the awareness levels of AI among full-time students of Literature at KNU, to examine the perceptions/attitudes of full-time students of Literature at KNU, to identify the challenges and benefits of using AI in a Literature-based educational setting and to determine the extent to which AI is being used by the full-time students of Literature at KNU The study employed a descriptive thematic analysis to make interpretations or meanings of the data. The study revealed that AI enhanced students’ analysis and understanding literary works, majority were exposed to and familiar with AI among other findings. Findings from selected students of Literature offer insights into their perceptions of AI’s role in literary analysis, research, and creative processes. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader discourse on the intersection of AI and the humanities, highlighting its implications for pedagogy and scholarly engagement.