Work

Understanding the Effect of Risk Perception on the Acceptance and Use of Large Language Models Among University Students

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) in education introduced powerful tools such as ChatGPT, which students increasingly use for academic purposes. However, these technologies present significant challenges for higher education, such as the risk of undermining academic integrity through AI-assisted performance and the uncertainty around proper use. This paper seeks to understand the benefits and risks university students perceive regarding LLM usage and how those influence their acceptance and use of related services in higher education. To this end, we employed a mixed-method approach. Using the UTAUT2 model extended by a Risk Expectancy construct, we conducted an online survey and follow-up interviews with university students. The results indicated that while students perceive considerable risks related to LLMs, those do not impact their usage and behavioral intention. We discuss this phenomenon based on the qualitative interview analysis and suggest research directions for future work.

Source: Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction

DOI: 10.1145/3757693

Authors: Michael T. Rücker, Carolin Büchting, Thomas Kosch

Institutions: Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

Language: English

Topic: Technology Adoption and User Behaviour

Subfield: Information Systems and Management

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft