Exploring Health Sciences Students' Perspectives on Using Generative Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: A Qualitative Study

The widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in academic settings has the potential to revolutionize learning experiences, enhance educational outcomes, and streamline academic processes. The aim of this research was to explore the perceptions of Lebanese health sciences students regarding the use of generative AI in higher education. A qualitative descriptive research design informed by descriptive phenomenology was employed. Semi-structured interviews were carried out among 23 health sciences students at one major private university in Beirut. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted over the period of 3 months. The inductive thematic analysis generated two themes, and eight subthemes highlighting the benefits and concerns in using AI; customized, self-paced, and autonomous learning, improved language and writing skills, development of innovative concepts, enhanced efficiency, accuracy of information, overreliance on AI, equitable access, unclear policies. Results from this study emphasized the importance of combined efforts across sectors to close access gaps, encourage inclusiveness, and develop well framed policies that enable students to utilize these new technologies for their maximum benefits.