The 2023 Global Survey conducted by Chegg.org, the non-profit arm of the educational technology company Chegg, the most comprehensive and up-to-date insight into the lives, hopes, and concerns of undergraduate students in 15 countries entering the AI era, aimed to discover what students think about the challenges of higher education. The survey interviewed 11,816 students, aged 18 to 21, in Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, the UK, and the US. The topics covered included mental health, finances, skills, and, for the first time, AI.
The rapid adoption of Generative AI (GenAI) by students is confirmed. According to the results of a survey conducted by Yonder Consulting, 40% of them use it in their studies, with a notable development since the introduction of ChatGPT in November 2022. Students declare motivation for improving their education and enhancing skills to remain competitive in the global market.
The use of GenAI for study purposes is most popular in Kenya (63%), Saudi Arabia (62%), and Spain (62%). On the opposite end of the spectrum, only about one-fifth of American (20%) and British (19%) students reported using it for studying, according to the report.
The ability to personalize learning
According to the survey, students use GenAI for several reasons. Globally, the primary reason cited by students is that it helps them learn faster (53%). Other reasons include the ability to personalize learning (35%), reducing the cost of additional tutoring (28%), and not always feeling comfortable asking professors for help (23%). 13% of students who used GenAI for their studies stated that they did so because it was requested by their teachers.
Furthermore, nearly two-thirds—65% of the 11,816 students who participated in the survey—indicated that they would like their program to include training on AI tools relevant to their future careers.
However, the results highlight some student concerns regarding the use of GenAI, notably the fear of receiving incorrect or inaccurate information, reported by 47% of users. Students express a clear desire for AI tools that provide accurate and reliable study support.
The most optimistic students are in Kenya (80%)
The survey also highlights the impact of Generative AI on student assessment, with 65% of students believing that universities should modify their evaluation methods considering the availability of free GenAI tools. Regarding mental health, despite an overall increase in optimism, rates of mental health issues remain high, especially in the US and the UK. Financial challenges persist as well, with 67% of students wishing to reduce the cost of their education.
In summary, the survey highlights students' enthusiasm for Generative AI while emphasizing the need to address concerns related to its use, particularly ensuring the accuracy of provided information. The results provide important insights for universities and policymakers seeking to adapt higher education to the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
"By giving students a voice and listening to their concerns, we can better understand how to support them. As we enter this new era of AI, it's crucial that we better understand how to harness the full potential of this technology, allowing students to learn how they want, what they want, when they want, and in the format they prefer—ultimately assisting them in their lifelong learning journey," said Heather Hatlo Porter, Director of Chegg.org and Communications Director of Chegg, Inc. "Our global student survey also shows that students worldwide are stressed, lack sleep, and struggle to make new friends. There is an urgent need for robust mental health support so that learners can make the most of their education and face the future with confidence.
Note: The most optimistic students are in Kenya (80%).