Artificial intelligence utility perceptions among South African students and graduates

Abstract

The objective of the study was to examine the perceptions of the efficacy of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving work performance between final-year students and recent graduates. The study employed a quantitative research methodology involving the gathering of quantitative data from two participant groups. The first group consisted of thirty representatives from final-year students across the six university faculties, while the second group comprised thirty recently employed graduates from the same universities. The students were instructed to engage with their peers in the faculties and thereafter evaluate their judgements of the utility of AI, considering both their own perspectives and those of their colleagues. The evaluations were assigned using a semantic differential scale ranging from 1 to 10. The Mann-Whitney test was conducted to determine if the difference in perspectives between the two groups was significant. Engagement in industry and the utilisation of AI enhance perceptions of its utility. Employees were more inclined to believe that AI can improve workplace performance, whereas final-year students expressed scepticism. It is advisable for higher education institutes