The study aims to examine the perception, usage, and evaluation of the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools by higher education students in their academic work. The study, which employed a quantitative survey of 100 students, found that AI has seeped into modern learning, with 95% of the students knowing about AI tools and 86% of them utilizing them regularly or occasionally.

The results show students have mostly favourable attitudes toward AI with great appreciation for its academic advantages. Most feel that AI improves academic performance (76%), accelerates learning and makes it more efficient (73%), and boosts learning quality (85%). The majority of students (84%) have positive attitudes towards the use of AI in education, and 83% agree that it is important for future jobs. Access to AI tools is mostly through mobile devices (83%) including mobile apps, which underscores the importance of mobile-optimized educational technologies. 

The study, however, also raises significant concerns. When it comes to the impact of AI on cognitive development, students are nervous: 77% agree that AI could have a negative impact on critical thinking skills and 72% say it could lead to a decrease in creativity. More than half believe there is a high level of student reliance on AI tools and 85% are concerned about the negative impacts overall. 

However, students believe that students ought to have a balance approach despite these concerns. 68% of people say that they want to teach AI in the curriculum, while 84% support restrictions on the use of AI. This nuanced view indicates that students are seeking structured and ethical use of AI that maximises benefits and minimises risks. The study suggests that policy, student-centred approaches, development of AI literacy and ethical guidelines are needed to ensure the success of implementing AI. The results offer significant insights for educators and policymakers aiming to leverage AI's potential while maintaining key cognitive abilities and academic integrity.