UoB students' dual lens on GenAI: Ethics and equity explored

This study explores the perspectives of UoB students regarding the ethics and equity aspects of GenAI use, focusing on their experiences, perceptions, and attitudes. Through semi-structured focus group discussions with Business School undergraduate and postgraduate students, we investigate the ethical considerations and practical implications of GenAI in academic contexts. Our findings highlight two main areas: the uncertainty students face regarding the ethical use of GenAI and the disparity in their proficiency with these tools. The study reveals that while students generally view GenAI positively for its efficiency and convenience, concerns about accuracy, ethics, and long-term impacts on learning and critical thinking persist. Additionally, the lack of clear guidelines on the responsible use of GenAI in assessments contributes to students’ apprehensions. The paper concludes with recommendations for universities to provide clearer policies and support to promote responsible use and equitable access to GenAI tools, ensuring that all students can benefit from these technological advancements without compromising academic integrity.