Exploring the Factors of "AI Guilt" Among Students -- Are You Guilty of Using AI in Your Homework?

Abstract

This study explores the phenomenon of "AI guilt" among secondary school students, a form of moral discomfort arising from the use of AI tools in academic tasks traditionally performed by humans. Through qualitative methodologies, the research examines the factors contributing to AI guilt, its social and psychological impacts, and its implications for educational practices. The findings revealed three main dimensions for AI guilt - perceived laziness and authenticity, fear of judgment, and identity and self-efficacy concerns. The findings suggest a need to redefine academic integrity and shift our mindset to reconsider what we should value in education. The study also emphasizes the importance of ethical guidelines and educational support and provides implications to help students navigate the complexities of AI in education, reducing feelings of guilt while enhancing learning outcomes.