AI Tools: Anxiety to Achievement - Unveiling the Psychological Dynamics of Technology Adoption

Abstract

Amidst the rapid AI integration in higher education, this qualitative study explores psychological dynamics among higher education students in Malaysia. The chapter uncovers a spectrum of emotions - spanning from high to low anxiety in utilising AI in education, such as reliability and accuracy concerns, fear of over-reliance, ethics and fairness considerations, data privacy and security issues, balancing ai and human learning, need for guidance and support and impact on future skills and job prospects and privacy preferences with AI tools. By exploring students' nuanced experiences and perceptions, the study extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), highlighting the importance of considering psychological factors such as anxiety in technology adoption. The chapter offers practical insights for educators, policymakers, and the higher education industry to transform anxiety into achievement through tailored interventions and strategies to alleviate anxiety, fostering positive attitudes, and supporting successful integration of AI tools into students' academic journey.