SHAH ALAM - Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a common part of university life for many students, used alongside lecture notes and online journals to generate ideas, understand complex concepts and manage academic workloads.
Despite its growing presence, however, students said AI should remain a supporting tool rather than a replacement for independent thinking.
Universiti Malaya Media Studies student Mior Zulhazri said he uses AI tools such as ChatGPT in moderation, mainly when he experiences “absolute brain block” while working on assignments or projects. He described AI as an assistant that helps structure ideas rather than provide ready-made answers.
“I still believe in the hardship of thinking, especially in academia, where it enables us to seek out solutions while nurturing critical thinking,” he said.
Mior said AI helps him organise ideas more efficiently, but he is careful to separate tasks that require assistance from those that require independent research and analysis.
“Personally, I would not let AI take over more than 15 per cent of my thinking,” he said, adding that the authenticity and sincerity of critical thinking are what make an academic piece stand out.
He acknowledged that reliance on AI can increase during periods of heavy workload and tight deadlines, but said self-discipline and time management help prevent overdependence.
Mior also said AI has improved his ability to develop ideas and participate in academic discussions more efficiently.
“With the rapid delivery of ideation frameworks, I am able to conceptualise ideas into solid discussions with others, accelerating the efficiency of assignments and projects,” he said.
However, he stressed that AI has not replaced his preference for independent thinking.
“AI helps me locate useful materials, references and case studies more efficiently. However, I still value the process of thinking independently.
“While it can be challenging to develop ideas without AI, it is also rewarding to know that you are capable of solving problems on your own,” he said.
TVET MARA Pasir Puteh Student Representative Council president Muhamad Mursyidil Hanif Muhamad Hisham also described AI as a useful learning aid, particularly for difficult subjects and assignments. He said he uses AI several times a week, depending on academic needs.
“For me, AI is very useful because it helps me understand things more quickly. However, if we use it without thinking, it can easily lead to overdependence.
“I try to treat it as a guide rather than accepting everything it provides without question,” he said.
He said the temptation to rely on AI increases during heavy workloads, especially when dealing with difficult questions, but students must still prioritise developing their own understanding.
Both students said clearer institutional guidance would help students navigate AI use in higher education.
Mior said universities should establish clearer rules to safeguard academic integrity and encourage responsible use, while Mursyidil said students need a clearer understanding of acceptable practices.
“I think clear guidelines on AI use are necessary. Students need to understand what is acceptable and what is not.
“Without proper guidance, there is a greater risk of misuse and overreliance on these tools,” Mursyidil said.