The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Students’ Learning Experiences in Thailand

Abstract

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into higher education and has the potential to transform students’ learning experiences. This study examines the impact of AI usage on university students’ learning experiences in Thailand, focusing on student engagement, self-regulated learning, and critical thinking ability. A quantitative research design was employed using a survey-based approach. Data were collected from 413 university students through an online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were used to examine the relationships among the key variables.  The findings indicate that AI tools are widely used by students to support their academic activities. The results show that AI usage has a significant positive effect on student engagement (β = 0.42, p < 0.001) and self-regulated learning (β = 0.37, p < 0.001). Student engagement significantly influences learning experience (β = 0.48, p < 0.001), suggesting that students who actively participate in learning activities tend to report more positive academic experiences. The findings also reveal that over-reliance on AI negatively affects students’ critical thinking ability (β = −0.29, p < 0.001), highlighting potential risks associated with excessive dependence on AI-generated responses. Overall, the findings suggest that AI technologies can enhance students’ learning experiences by increasing engagement and supporting self-regulated learning. The results also highlight the importance of promoting responsible AI use to ensure that these tools complement, rather than replace, students’ independent thinking and critical reasoning skills.