Barriers to using artificial intelligence among rural higher education students of Odisha

Barriers of Using Artificial Intelligence among Rural Higher Education Students of Odisha

This study explores the barriers faced by rural higher education students in Odisha in adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the teaching-learning process. It aims to assess students’ perceptions of AI and identify demographic factors influencing AI adoption. A survey-based quantitative research design was employed, with data collected from 111 rural higher education students in Odisha using convenience sampling. Statistical tools, including Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis H tests, and correlation analysis, were applied to examine differences in AI perception based on demographic variables such as gender, academic level, family type and field of study. The results indicate a moderate level of AI awareness among students. Postgraduate students showed a higher acceptance and understanding of AI compared to undergraduates. While gender and field of study influenced AI perceptions, family structure had minimal impact. Key barriers identified include limited access to AI tools, lack of AI knowledge, concerns about AI’s impact on creativity and problem-solving, and ethical concerns regarding plagiarism. The study also highlights the digital divide between urban and rural institutions, with rural students facing significant challenges in accessing AI-driven educational resources. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to improve AI accessibility and literacy in rural education. Policies promoting infrastructure development, teacher training, and responsible AI usage are essential to bridging the technology gap. This study provides a region-specific analysis of AI adoption barriers in rural higher education, offering insights into how demographic factors shape AI perceptions. It contributes to the growing discourse on equitable technology integration in education.