The effect of generative AI tools (ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.) on students’ achievement and their motivation towards learning

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the effect of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools (ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.) on students’ achievement and their motivation towards learning. The participants of this study were 47 students enrolled in the course of “Educational Technology” in the Department of Instructional Technology at Sultan Qaboos University, using academic achievement test and motivation questionnaire. Two groups out of six groups were chosen randomly to represent the sample of this study. The results of the study showed that the use of GenAI in teaching had significant positive effect on students’ performance in learning educational and information technology. The results also showed that the experimental group showed statistically significant progress in the post-test mean scores compared to the pre-test mean scores. In addition, the findings showed that there is no statistically significant difference in students’ motivation scores between the experimental group and control group. The findings of this study can have important implications for the promotion of GenAI tools, such as ChatGPT, Gemini. For example, applying these GenAI tools into learning activities and instructional strategies may enhance students’ understanding and comprehension in educational technology courses.