Challenge 4

Event Information:

Event Description: 

For this challenge, I participated in an online research survey created by a graduate student from the Human-Computer Interaction program at UMD. The purpose of the research was to gather information on how students use Generative AI summarization tools (such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, or Gemini) to support academic coursework.

The survey asked questions about:

• Frequency of AI usage

• Types of assignments where AI summaries are used

• Perceived advantages and drawbacks of relying on AI-generated summaries

• How AI affects reading habits, time management, and stress

Participating in this study counts as community engagement because the data helps a student researcher develop insights for a design project related to educational technology.

Event Summary: 

The survey took approximately 10 minutes. It was structured, anonymous, and easy to navigate. Most questions were multiple choice or short written reflections.

The survey made me reflect on why I use AI: not just how often. I realized that I often use AI summaries when I'm overwhelmed with workload, not because I don’t want to learn. AI helps me manage academic stress, especially when multiple deadlines stack up.

The researcher’s goal is to explore how AI tools can be improved so students stay engaged with coursework instead of feeling pressured to shortcut through material.

Biggest Takeaway: 

My biggest takeaway is that AI is becoming part of students’ time-management strategy.
Instead of seeing AI as a “cheat,” the survey framed it as a productivity tool that helps students:

• Break down dense readings

• Manage multiple simultaneous deadlines

• Reduce stress and mental fatigue

AI isn’t replacing learning, students are using it strategically to survive heavy workloads.

Reflection Questions: 

1. What did you learn about your issue from this challenge?
I learned that responsible AI usage isn’t just about ethics, it's also about student mental health and balance. Many students turn to AI because coursework pacing can be overwhelming. AI helps reduce stress and gives students a starting point.

2. What was successful or least successful? Why?

• Successful: The survey raised self-awareness. I reflected on my study habits and why I rely on AI.

• Least successful: It didn’t explore teachers’ expectations or how AI might change course design. Hearing instructors’ perspectives could provide a fuller picture.
  
  

3. What might you do differently?
If I have a second chance, I’d be interested in participating in a follow-up study or focus group to hear how other students use AI tools. Hearing multiple viewpoints might help me see better strategies for incorporating AI into learning.

4. How will this challenge help you moving forward?
This experience made me more intentional about using AI. Instead of using AI to replace reading, I’ll use it to:

• Preview content

• Generate key concepts

• Ask follow-up questions afterward
  
  

5. What questions do you have after completing this challenge?

• How can AI tools be designed to encourage deeper engagement with readings?

• Do students who use AI summaries learn faster or forget information quicker?

• Could professors integrate AI into coursework rather than discourage it?

Conclusion:

Participating in this research survey was a meaningful form of community engagement. I contributed to academic research that could influence the future of educational technology and AI usage at UMD. The experience helped me rethink how AI fits into healthy, balanced learning habits.