The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Chatbots On the Academic Writing Skills of National Diploma One Students in Katsina State Institute of Technology and Management

Abstract

This study examined the influence of Artificial Intelligence chatbots on the academic writing skills of National Diploma One students offering GNS 111: Communication in English at Katsina State Institute of Technology and Management. With the growing use of AI tools like ChatGPT and Meta AI among students, there is a need to understand how these technologies affect writing performance in Nigerian polytechnics. The study adopted a mixed-method design and was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model and Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory. A total of 120 ND1 students were selected from eight departments using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through a 15-item questionnaire and a controlled essay writing exercise. Descriptive statistics, mean, standard deviation, and independent t-test were used for quantitative analysis, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Results showed that a majority of students frequently use AI chatbots for academic tasks and perceive them positively. Students who used AI during the essay task achieved a significantly higher mean score of 15.85 compared to 13.20 for those who did not use AI [t=3.42, p<0.05]. The improvement was most evident in grammar and vocabulary, though concerns about reduced originality and over-reliance on AI were also noted. Challenges such as poor internet access, high data cost, and lack of institutional policy were identified. The study concludes that AI chatbots can serve as effective learning aids for writing when properly guided. It recommends that KSITM formulate policies for ethical AI use, train lecturers on AI integration, improve internet facilities, and sensitize students on responsible use of AI tools.