PAI Students’ Perceptions of Ethics in the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Learning

Abstract

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for learning in higher education supports information retrieval, understanding of learning materials, reference searches, and the completion of academic assignments. However, its use raises ethical concerns regarding academic honesty, responsibility, critical thinking skills, and potential dependence on technology. This study aimed to describe Pendidikan Agama Islam (PAI) students’ perceptions of the ethics of AI use in learning at UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach involving three PAI students as primary informants and two lecturers as supporting informants, selected based on their relevance to the research focus. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, then analyzed using Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña’s model through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings showed that students viewed AI as a tool that made learning easier, with its use requiring information verification, an understanding of sources, and critical thinking. AI use considered ethical included refraining from copying answers directly, conducting independent analysis, and maintaining AI’s role as a support for the thinking process. These findings underscore the importance of AI literacy, academic integrity, and students’ responsibility in PAI learning. This study provides a contextual account of students’ ethical perceptions and offers input for students, lecturers, and the study program to develop critical and responsible use of AI.