Purpose The study aims to investigate how three artificial intelligence (AI) tools – ChatGPT, Gamma and Autopilot – can assist university students in improving their academic writing tasks. Design/methodology/approach This one-group pretest/posttest study examined the impact of three AI tools, ChatGPT, Gamma and Autopilot, on students’ academic performance. Students used one tool for assignments, supported by pre- and posttests, surveys and reflections. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, ANOVA and correlations. Qualitative data was collected from reflections and group discussions. This study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model and Constructivist Learning Theory, with reflexive notes included to minimize researcher bias. Findings The results showed that AI tools enhanced ease of use among students and reduced the time required to complete tasks, with ChatGPT scoring the highest in terms of usability. Gamma proved more accurate due to its customizable output formats, whereas Autopilot was less flexible and simpler. Weaknesses included difficulties in adherence to references and limited support for the Arabic language, especially with ChatGPT. Students appreciated the time-saving and improved presentation qualities of the tools, but noted a need for more precise references and better support for non-English languages. These statistical findings were reinforced by qualitative reflections, which provided insights into how students justified their tool choices and what they found weak about them, particularly regarding citations and support for Arabic. Research limitations/implications Because this study is exploratory and conducted at one university, it cannot be generalized to the larger population. Participants were not randomly assigned to conditions, and the absence of a control group makes it difficult to isolate the specific effects of AI tools. Future research could expand on these findings by including a more representative sample and a control group to better inform educators and researchers about the impact of AI tool use. Practical implications AI tools like Autopilot, Gamma and ChatGPT are valuable resources that increase productivity and simplify the research process. Responsible use of these tools is essential, however, to ensure that academic standards and citation practices are properly maintained. Following these standards enables students to benefit from the time-saving features of AI tools without compromising the quality or integrity of their work. Originality/value This study explores the potential of AI tools to support academic work, an underresearched area. It offers new perspectives on how AI can enhance academic support by examining their real-world applications in higher education. The results highlight AI’s potential to raise the effectiveness and efficiency of educational outcomes.
Mohareb et al. (Wed,) studied this question.