The impact of generative artificial intelligence on academic development of Chinese students in humanities and social sciences

This study investigates how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is integrated into the academic lives of students in the humanities and social sciences (HSS) in China. Given that HSS disciplines prioritize interpretive reasoning, critical argumentation, and original intellectual voice, the authors examine whether GenAI acts as a scaffold for deep learning or a tool for cognitive substitution. The researchers conducted a large-scale survey of 915 students across various HSS disciplines, focusing on usage patterns, perceived impacts on learning processes, and student attitudes toward institutional integration.

The survey results indicate a strong consensus regarding the efficiency-enhancing capabilities of GenAI. Nearly all respondents reported improvements in learning efficiency, largely due to the tool's ability to assist with literature retrieval, complex concept explanation, and writing tasks. Furthermore, approximately 65% of students reported increased motivation for active learning, suggesting that GenAI can serve as an accessible, non-judgmental support system.

However, the impact on higher-order cognitive skills is more nuanced. While many students feel GenAI boosts their creativity and independent thinking, a substantial minority report little change or even a decline in these areas. The authors suggest this reflects a tension between using GenAI as a productive scaffold and falling into a pattern of overreliance that may undermine the very critical reasoning skills central to HSS education.

Students identified limited accuracy and the risk of overreliance as their most pressing concerns. Despite these risks, there is widespread recognition of GenAI's importance for future professional development. The participants expressed a preference for "partial or optional" curricular integration, supported by practice-oriented training. This suggests that students are not seeking a total replacement of traditional methods but rather a structured, ethical framework that allows them to leverage AI while maintaining academic integrity.