Assessing Knowledge and Awareness of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Research Among Tertiary Students in Ghana

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 03 | Page : 19 25
    By

    Eric Kwasi Elliason,

  • Atul Khajuria,

  • Stephen Monday,

  • J. Samuel Kamanda,

  1. PhD Research Fellow, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Punjab, India
  2. Director, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Punjab, India
  3. Teaching Assistant, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Punjab, India
  4. Teaching Assistant, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Punjab, India

Abstract

Background: While Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are evolving rapidly in education, a major deficit in tertiary students’ awareness and use of AI-based academic research is observed in Ghana. Prior research notes general awareness but limited use in practice and mentions issues with trust, ethics, and accessibility. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was undertaken with a sample size of 450 undergraduates and postgraduates from diverse disciplines through stratified random sampling. The study utilized structured questionnaire which assessed AI awareness, use, and perceptions. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 with Chi-square tests, regression analysis, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Results: 68% of respondents were aware of AI tools, but only 45% had used AI tools. The main predictors for awareness were usefulness (B=0.45, p=0.001) and life safety (B=0.32, p=0.004). Univariate analysis showed significant differences by sex (male), by age (18–24 years), and pilot education (postgrads). Ethical considerations were the most significant barriers, including job displacement (40%) and risks to privacy (35%). Conclusion: Tertiary students in Ghana have moderate levels of AI awareness but its practical use remains low. Bridging this gap involves implementing specialized training programs, improving digital literacy, and enacting transparent policies to address ethical issues. Only then can institutions make the most of its potential in academia.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, academic research, tertiary students, Ghana, awareness, technology adoption

[This article belongs to Current Trends in Information Technology ]

How to cite this article:
Eric Kwasi Elliason, Atul Khajuria, Stephen Monday, J. Samuel Kamanda. Assessing Knowledge and Awareness of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Research Among Tertiary Students in Ghana. Current Trends in Information Technology. 2025; 15(03):19-25.
How to cite this URL:
Eric Kwasi Elliason, Atul Khajuria, Stephen Monday, J. Samuel Kamanda. Assessing Knowledge and Awareness of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Research Among Tertiary Students in Ghana. Current Trends in Information Technology. 2025; 15(03):19-25. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ctit/article=2025/view=227946


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 03
Received 16/07/2025
Accepted 21/07/2025
Published 17/09/2025
Publication Time 63 Days
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