A TAM-Based Analysis of Hong Kong Undergraduate Students’ Attitudes Toward Generative AI in Higher Education and Employment

This study explores undergraduate students’ attitudes towards generative AI tools in higher education and their perspectives on the future of jobs. It aims to understand the decision-making processes behind adopting these emerging technologies. A multidimensional model based on the technology acceptance model was developed to assess various factors, including perceived ease of use, perceived benefits, perceived concerns, knowledge of AI, and students’ perceptions of generative AI’s impact on the future of jobs. Data were collected through a survey distributed to 93 undergraduate students at a university in Hong Kong. The findings of multiple regression analyses revealed that these factors collectively explained 23% of the variance in frequency of use [(F(4, 78) = 5.89, p < 0.001), R² = 0.23]. Perceived benefits played the most significant role in determining frequency of use of generative AI tools. While students expressed mixed attitudes toward the role of AI in the future of jobs, those who voiced concerns about AI in education were more likely to view generative AI as a potential threat to job availability. The results provide insights for educators and policymakers to promote the effective use of generative AI tools in academic settings to help mitigate risks associated with overreliance, biases, and the underdevelopment of essential soft skills, including critical thinking, creativity, and communication. By addressing these challenges, higher education institutions can better prepare students for a rapidly evolving, AI-driven workforce.