A Study on the Adoption and Responsible Use of Generative AI Tools for Sustainable Learning among Undergraduate Students

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has emerged as a transformative technology in higher education, significantly influencing the way students learn, access information, complete academic tasks, and develop professional skills. Tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Canva AI have become increasingly popular among commerce students for assignments, presentations, exam preparation, and concept clarification. While these technologies offer opportunities for personalized and efficient learning, their growing use also raises concerns regarding academic integrity, ethical practices, critical thinking, and dependency on AI-generated content. This study aims to examine the adoption and responsible use of Generative AI tools among commerce students in higher education and to evaluate their contribution towards sustainable learning. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical research design using primary data collected through a structured questionnaire administered to commerce students. The study focuses on students' awareness of GenAI tools, frequency and purpose of usage, responsible AI practices, AI dependency, and the perceived impact of AI on academic productivity and sustainable learning outcomes. The study is expected to provide insights into how commerce students integrate Generative AI into their academic learning and whether they use these tools responsibly by verifying information, avoiding plagiarism, and using AI as a learning aid rather than a substitute for independent thinking. It also explores the relationship between AI adoption, ethical usage, and sustainable learning practices in the context of higher education. The findings of this research are expected to assist educators, higher education institutions, and policymakers in designing AI literacy initiatives, promoting responsible AI usage, and developing pedagogical practices aligned with the objectives of sustainable and inclusive education. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on Artificial Intelligence in commerce education by emphasizing the importance of balancing technological innovation with ethical responsibility and lifelong learning in higher education.