Exploring Academic Intentions for ChatGPT: A Perspective from the Theory of Planned Behavior

Abstract

Advancements such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT are part of cutting-edge megatrends in artificial intelligence (AI). ChatGPT has the potential to reshape education. This article applies the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to investigate the correlation between attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and the inclination to utilize ChatGPT for academic purposes. Our methodology involved conducting an online cross-sectional survey of 311 university students in Malaysia, a majority Malaysian (82.3%) and female (61.1%) aged 21-23 (66%). We develop three hypotheses and test them with SmartPLS 4. The results suggest that attitude, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms exert a positive influence on the intention to embrace ChatGPT. From a pragmatic standpoint, it is advisable for universities to actively incorporate AI technologies like ChatGPT into the academic setting, addressing attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived control to prepare students effectively.