Generative Artificial Intelligence and Cognitive Engagement: Redefining Learning Experiences in Universities

Abstract

The rapid advancement of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has transformed higher education by enhancing teaching practices, cognitive engagement, and students' learning experiences. This paper examines the relationship of Generative Artificial Intelligence with cognitive engagement and learning experiences among students enrolled in selected public and private universities in Punjab and Sindh, Pakistan. The study employs a quantitative cross-sectional research design. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on a sample of 433 students belonging to both public and private sector universities in Punjab and Sindh. The sampled universities are the University of the Punjab, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Government College University Faisalabad, University of Education Lahore, University of Sindh Jamshoro, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, and the University of Karachi. The study utilized a non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected online using Google Forms. The rest of the sample were screened in Microsoft Excel and analyzed in SPSS. Descriptive statistics along with, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, Independent Samples t-test, and One-Way ANOVA were used to meet the objectives of the study. The results demonstrated significant positive associations between Generative Artificial Intelligence, cognitive engagement, and learning experiences among the surveyed students, while statistically significant differences were also observed across selected demographic groups. The observed associations may help teachers and university managers consider the responsible use of Generative AI in teaching and learning. Because participants were recruited through non-probability convenience sampling, the findings represent the experiences and perceptions of the surveyed students only and should not be generalized to all university students in Pakistan.