Generative AI in higher education in Indonesia: Patterns of use and learning impact

The swift rise of generative AI in higher education is transforming how students complete academic assignments. In Indonesia's higher education sector, where AI adoption is growing faster than formal guidance, understanding this transformation is particularly critical for safeguarding academic integrity and learning quality. This study seeks to (1) describe patterns of generative AI utilization, (2) explore student views and experiences, and (3) identify implications for higher education in Indonesia. The study employed an exploratory qualitative approach, involving 131 students from a university in Jakarta—encompassing undergraduate, master's, and doctorate programs—who composed reflective essays regarding their experiences with AI. Employing Saldaña's two-cycle coding method, three primary themes were identified: AI as an academic assistance tool, AI for academic skill development, and AI for learning effectiveness. Students predominantly used AI for rapid information retrieval and summarization, improving their academic writing (e.g., refining structure, clarity, and grammar), and supporting their study practices (e.g., generating practice quizzes and organizing study plans). Although AI provided enhanced efficiency and accessibility, apprehensions emerged regarding excessive dependence, diminished critical thinking, and ethical dilemmas pertaining to academic integrity. These findings underscore the significance of AI literacy initiatives to assist students in the responsible integration of AI tools while preserving cognitive engagement and originality. The study is confined to a single institution and depends on self-reported reflective essays, indicating the need for careful interpretation of the findings. As one of the first qualitative studies on this topic in Indonesia, this research addresses a critical empirical and policy gap by offering context-specific evidence on AI's educational role and by outlining a balanced integration pathway for Indonesian higher education institutions. Future research ought to investigate cross-institutional comparisons, the long-term effects of AI adoption, and educators' viewpoints regarding its function in academic settings.