From optimism to trust: how ChatGPT is reshaping student confidence in AI-driven learning

Generative artificial intelligence, such as ChatGPT, is transforming the field of higher education, especially in supporting academic tasks. However, its effective adoption depends on factors such as students' trust and their perception of the tool's usefulness. This study analyzes how technological optimism, perceived usefulness, and ease of use influence university students' trust in ChatGPT. A quantitative methodology was employed, using structural equation modeling (SEM) based on data collected from 316 university students in Argentina. The survey included questions about optimism, perceived usefulness, ease of use, and trust in ChatGPT, with factorial analyses conducted to validate the constructs and examine the proposed relationships in the model. The results show that students' optimism significantly impacts their perception of usefulness and trust in ChatGPT, while ease of use does not have a direct significant effect on trust. This suggests that students value the practical benefits the tool brings to their learning process more than its ease of use. These findings suggest that universities should focus on highlighting the practical value of ChatGPT through specific training programs and fostering a critical use of the tool. It is also recommended to implement strategies that enhance the interaction between students and teachers and assess the potential of ChatGPT to improve students' academic performance.