Generative AI Use, Perceived Learning, and Perceived Academic Performance Among University Students

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Published: 2026-09-01
DOI: https://doi.org/10.66422/RJMU.ID.79
Keywords:
artificial intelligence, higher education, ChatGPT, student learning, perceived academic performance, technology acceptance, academic integrity

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Bashar Abdulkareem Alali
Dean, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4986-1309
Mohamad Rami Al Jundi
Dean, Faculty of Mechatronics, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-9010-3078
Salahaldin Arour
Undergraduate Student, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4034-8074
Alaa Hilal
Undergraduate Student, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1556-9665
Ahamd Al Sheikh
Undergraduate Student, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-7397-4694

Abstract

Generative AI tools are increasingly embedded in university study practices, yet institution-level evidence remains limited, particularly in underrepresented regions. This study examined the frequency and patterns of AI use among undergraduates at Maaref University of Applied Sciences in northern Syria and explored its relationship with perceived understanding, academic performance, attitudes, and concerns. An online questionnaire was completed by 58 students from seven faculties, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression. Most respondents (81.0%) used AI daily or several times weekly, with ChatGPT the most commonly reported tool. AI use was positively associated with perceived understanding (r = .677, p < .001) and academic performance (r = .765, p < .001). The regression model explained 72.1% of the variance in perceived academic performance. Although causal conclusions cannot be drawn, the findings support structured AI-literacy training, verification practices, and clear institutional guidance for responsible academic use.

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Article Details

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): August Issue

Section

Articles

Author Biographies

Bashar Abdulkareem Alali, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria

Bashar Abdulkareem Alali holds a PhD in English Language Studies from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). He is currently the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences at Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria, where he also teaches undergraduate students. In addition, he teaches undergraduate students at Idlib University and postgraduate students at the Higher Institute of Languages, Idlib University. With over a decade of experience in English language teaching, teacher training, translation, and higher education, his academic and professional career spans institutions in Syria and Malaysia. His research interests include applied linguistics, genre analysis, English for Specific Purposes (ESP), English language teaching (ELT), corpus linguistics, tourism discourse, academic writing, and the integration of generative artificial intelligence in language education. He has published in peer-reviewed journals and international conference proceedings on topics related to genre-based discourse analysis, corpus-assisted language research, tourism promotional texts, and AI-assisted learning.

Mohamad Rami Al Jundi, Dean, Faculty of Mechatronics, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria

Mohammad   Rami   Al   Jundi is   a   Faculty   Member   in Mechanical  Engineering  with  over  10  years  of  professional experience   across  engineering   and   educational   fields.   He currently serves at Al Maaref University for Applied Sciences. He  holds  a  PhD  in  Mechanical   Engineering   (Design  and Production)  and  has  prior  industry   experience   as  a  Steel Recycling   and   Fleet   Manager.   His   expertise   spans   heat treatment, engineering  research, project and HR management, decision-making,  and  team  leadership.  His  current  academic focus is on Mechatronics Engineering.

Alaa Hilal, Undergraduate Student, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria

Alaa Hilal is a second-year Mechatronics Engineering student at Maaref University of Applied Sciences, with growing interests in artificial intelligence, intelligent control systems, robotics, programming, and human–machine interaction. He is particularly interested in exploring how artificial intelligence and mechatronic technologies can be integrated to develop intelligent systems that enhance human capabilities and improve interaction between humans and machines. His current technical experience includes SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and web development. Through his practical work, he has developed a functional website as a personal project. He continues to expand his knowledge across engineering, software development, and emerging technologies, with a strong emphasis on building an interdisciplinary foundation. His long-term goal is to pursue a career as both an engineer and researcher, contributing to the development of intelligent mechatronic systems, advanced automation, human augmentation technologies, and innovative solutions at the intersection of artificial intelligence and engineering.

Ahamd Al Sheikh , Undergraduate Student, Maaref University of Applied Sciences, Syria

Ahmad Alshiek is a second-year Mechatronics Engineering student at Al Maaref University of Applied Sciences, with growing interests in artificial intelligence, intelligent control systems, robotics, programming, and human–machine interaction. He is particularly interested in exploring how artificial intelligence and mechatronic technologies can be integrated to develop intelligent systems that enhance human capabilities and improve interaction between humans and machines. His current technical experience includes SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and web development. As part of his practical experience, he has developed a functional website as a personal project. He continues to expand his knowledge across engineering, software development, and emerging technologies, with a particular focus on building a strong interdisciplinary foundation. His long-term goal is to pursue a career as both an engineer and researcher, contributing to the development of intelligent mechatronic systems, advanced automation, human augmentation technologies, and innovative solutions at the intersection of artificial intelligence and engineering.

How to Cite

Generative AI Use, Perceived Learning, and Perceived Academic Performance Among University Students. (2026). Research Journal of Maaref University of Applied Sciences, 2(2), 172-190. https://doi.org/10.66422/RJMU.ID.79

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