Students’ perceptions and effect of ChatGPT on research proposal quality across gender in Indonesia

Abstract

The use of ChatGPT in improving students' academic writing abilities has been extensively studied, but how students perceive the use of ChatGPT affecting the quality of thesis proposals remains unclear becomes the novelty of this research. To address this gap, this study examines final semester students (N=55) utilizing ChatGPT in preparing final assignments across universities in East Indonesia. Employing a mixed-methods research design, this study collected data through surveys and short essays. Descriptive statistics, bivariate correlations, independent t-tests, linear regression, and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings indicate that i) perceptions of ChatGPT positively correlate with the quality of students' proposals, ii) perceptions of ChatGPT use predict the quality of research proposals, iii) gender does not influence perceptions of ChatGPT use or the quality of students' proposals, and iv) ChatGPT has a positive impact as research reference model, source of ideas, framework reference, translation tool, and paraphraser, but it also has limitations, particularly in providing accurate responses and posing a risk of reducing critical thinking abilities. ChatGPT has proven effective in helping students prepare research proposals, developing ideas, and research frameworks. However, institutions must provide appropriate guidance to prevent the decrease of critical thinking abilities.