Impact of artificial intelligence on students’ creativity in ODL: the mediating role of happiness
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Purpose Artificial intelligence (AI) is an emerging research variable. It aims to enhance students' cognitive and creative abilities through the use of AI applications to better think and perform in their various academic fields. Nowadays, AI tools and applications are rapidly growing in the education sector and have not yet been fully studied in online and distance learning (ODL) settings with respect to students’ creativity (SC). Based on the theory of planned behavior, the objective of this study is to highlight the role of AI in SC in ODL education. This research also investigates the mediating role of happiness between the use of AI and SC. Design/methodology/approach The study used a mixed-method approach to measure the students’ perceptions, integrating both quantitative and qualitative tools and techniques. Data were collected through a questionnaire and structured interviews of ODL students through convenience sampling. The quantitative data were analyzed through the PROCESS macro in SPSS, whereas the qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. Findings Findings reveal that AI is positively associated with SC. Additionally, the results show that AI is positively related to SC indirectly through its impact on happiness, highlighting the mediating role of psychological well-being in the relationship between AI and creativity. Originality/value In today’s diverse and highly competitive educational environment, the psychological and emotional well-being of the students has a strong impact on their perceived behavioral control and attitudes. This study provides novel implications for policymakers, educationists and teachers to enhance SC by understanding the underlying mechanism through happiness.
Source: AAOU Journal/AAOU journal
Authors: Nazia Rafiq, Maryam Ahmad
Institution: Virtual University of Pakistan
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411071192