Perceptions and Experiences in the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence among University Students. A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Introduction. The emergence of conversational AI (chatbots) and text-based AI, suchas Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI), hasmarked a significant shift in how people interact with technology, profoundly influencingthe field of universityeducation. Thisstudy aims to identify and analyze key themes relatedto the integration of GAI in higher education, with a focus on students'perceptions and experiences of using GAI acrossvariousacademic programs.Methods and tools. A descriptive qualitative design was adoptedto explore students' perceptions of using GAI in their educational journeys. Participantswereselectedthrough purposive sampling and participated in online focus groups. Data analysiswasconductedusingVaismoradi'sthematicanalysismethod, ensuring a systematicprocess to identifyemergingthemes. Methodological rigor wasmaintainedaccording to Lincoln and Guba'scriteria.Results. A total of 13 students participated: 4 were enrolledin undergraduate programs, 1 in amaster’s program, and 8 in a doctoral program. Four key themes emerged: "Learning and preparing to use GAI," "GAI as a support tool," "Trust in GAI," and "Ethical aspectsand risks."Discussion. Students recognize the potential of these technologies to improve writing and research but emphasize the need for more structured training. It is essential to develop educational pathways that encourage critical and responsible use of GAI, balancing its benefits with the need for appropriate supervision and ethical risk evaluation