“Perceptions of New Era University Students on the Ethical Considerations of

Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an Educational Tool”

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

For Ethics

CASSummer 1

Anilao, Edelberto III N.

Caluttong, Andrea Beatrice C.

Gabatino, Hannah Cloe B.

Respicio, Daniela I.

Torrales, Raven

2023

Submitted to:

Professor Pedrito Placio B.

 ABSTRACT

This study aims to provide insights into the ethical challenges and dilemmas

arising from the use of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of balancing the

advantages of AI with addressing these ethical concerns.

The researchers conducted a survey among 20 random students of New Era

University to address the moral and ethical implications of incorporating AI as a tool for

use in education.

The researchers concluded that New Era University students' perceptions of the

ethical considerations of AI as an educational tool are shaped by a relatively high level

of familiarity with AI in education, with the majority of respondents (95%) demonstrating

a familiarity with AI. This acknowledges the potential educational benefits, such as

improved access to educational resources, more efficient administrative duties,

increased student involvement, and tailored learning experiences.

 INTRODUCTION

Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere. One may not be aware of it, but it is true

that AI is commonly utilized on a daily basis. Whenever an individual surfs the web,

reads one’s emails, and especially when one scrolls through social media. Artificial

intelligence can be defined as the simulation of human intelligence processes by

technology, particularly computer systems. AI applications include expert systems,

natural language processing, speech recognition, and machine vision (Burns, E. et al.,

n.d.).

The world is aware of how the digital revolution altered how people live, work,

and communicate. However, while these technologies have the potential to make many

people around the world happier and more convenient, they possess the potential to

introduce new issues for both citizens and governments. This included how Artificial

Intelligence (AI) in our environment is evolving. Given this, it is clear that the concept of

this advanced technology would be widely adopted by the majority of people. However,

there is skepticism around the use of AI, and certain individuals questioning the morality

of such innovation. Is the adoption of AI as an educational tool ethically accounted for

and justified?

This case study aims to address the integration of AI as an educational tool on

how it presents opportunities for enhanced learning experiences through contextualized

and personalized instruction, while simultaneously necessitating careful consideration of

the moral and ethical implications and the need to strike a balance between the benefits

of AI and the preservation of traditional educational values and effectiveness.

 A. Background of the Study

There exists a significant difference between “doing ethical things” and “doing

things ethically”. Profoundly having the understanding of the concept allows people to

choose teaching strategies that are moral and to take into account the constant risk of

unintended effects. This is further supported by Holmes et al. (2018) wherein findings

stated that “no framework has been devised, no guidelines have been agreed, no

policies have been developed, and no regulations have been enacted to address the

specific ethical issues raised by the use of AI in education.” Simply stated, even though

some standards were already developed with regards to the relationship of AI and

ethics (Bird et al., 2020), the standard that oversees specifically for education is not yet

established. This constitutes to the dilemma of identifying the ethical considerations of

the usage of AI as a tool for education. However, despite the ill prejudice towards this

discussion, it is worth noting that AI provides various advantages (Stahl, 2021).

In relation to ethical considerations of AI towards education, a study conducted

by Braunack-Mayer et al. (2020) highlighted the need for ethical considerations in the

use of student data and learning analytics in higher education. The findings revealed

lack of awareness among students and staff regarding the collection and use of data, as

well as concerns about misinterpretation and transparency. Furthermore, the study

emphasized the importance of involving stakeholders (both students and instructors)

and addressing ethical issues to enhance the design and implementation of learning

analytics. To ensure the ethical use of AI in education, factors such as transparency,

fairness, and informed consent should be prioritized. Hence, educational institutions

must establish clear policies and educate students about data privacy. A similar study

about how students and instructors perceive the impact of AI systems on

learner-instructor interaction in online learning was conducted by Fels, S. et al. (2021). It

was found out that what students and instructors perceive negatively often stemmed

from the positive aspects of AI systems. Students and instructors, for example, valued

AI's rapid communication but were concerned about AI-based misunderstandings or

deception. This caused hysteria that may potentially limit the ability to learn

independently. This demonstrated that, while AI systems have been positively

recognized for improving and simplifying tasks, drawbacks still exist.

As many individuals benefit from AI as it played an integral part in the

development of humankind in the near future, it is impossible to notice the detrimental

effects it offers. According to Seo, K., Tang, J., Roll, I. et al (2021), “Artificial intelligence

(AI) systems offer effective support for online learning and teaching, including

personalizing learning for students, automating instructors’ routine tasks, and powering

adaptive assessments.” This may encourage students and instructors to become reliant

on AI for the accomplishment of activities or tasks. This may result in a rise of various

ethical dilemmas concerning the use of AI systems that must be carefully addressed.
 B. Research Problems

To address the moral and ethical implications of incorporating Artificial

Intelligence as a tool for use in education, the researchers posed the following

questions. These would form the framework for this case study's consideration of the

prevalent contemporary dilemma. The following are the questions:

1. In what context and by what means does AI facilitate the learning of

students?

2. What are the evident moral and ethical considerations present in the

usage of AI?

3. Does the use of AI as an educational tool undermine the purpose and

efficacy of traditional education?

 C. Significance of the Study

The advancement and increasing accessibility of Artificial Intelligence has

resulted in its widespread use by individuals throughout all areas of life. It truly benefits

from and delivers the convenience of an automated and intelligent reservoir of

knowledge at arm’s length. With the information provided by this case study, the findings

proved significant to the following entities:

1. Educators and Educational Institutions: This study provides educators

with valuable insights into the ethical implications of integrating AI into

educational practices. It helps them understand the potential risks,

challenges, and ethical dilemmas associated with AI applications in

educational settings. This knowledge enables educators to develop

informed policies, guidelines, and curricula that promote responsible and

ethical use of AI in education.

2. Students: This research benefits students by raising awareness of the

ethical considerations surrounding AI. It helps them understand the

potential biases, privacy concerns, and social implications of AI

technologies. By gaining ethical literacy, students can make informed

decisions about their own use of AI tools, critically evaluate AI-driven

content, and become responsible digital citizens.

 3. Researchers and Academics: This paper contributes to the academic

discourse on the ethical dimensions of AI in education. It provides

researchers with a foundation to conduct further investigations, explore

specific ethical concerns, and develop frameworks for ethical AI

implementation.

Scope and Delimitation

This study is intended to examine the ethical implications of integrating AI

technologies into educational practices. The study aims to provide insights into the

ethical challenges and dilemmas that arise from the use of AI in education. The scope

of the study will focus on the perceptions of 2nd Year College Students from New Era

University. The sample will be composed current mid-year section of Ethics 2023,

CASSummer 1, amounting to 20 students.

The study's delimitation focuses specifically on the ethical considerations of AI in

educational contexts and does not delve into broader ethical issues related to AI in

other sectors or explore technical aspects of AI development. Additionally, saturated

outcomes can’t be prevented due to the population’s nature of being part of a single

academic institute. Plus, aspirants that have less or no prior experience to such

technology may possess misunderstandings, misinformation, and misconceptions which

may affect the reports.

D. Definition of Terms
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) - is the simulation of human intelligence

processes by machines, especially computer systems.

2. Ethical Consideration - are a set of principles that guide your research

designs and practices.

3. Detrimental - causes harm or damage.

4. Ethical Dilemma - is a problem in the decision-making process between

two possible options, neither of which is absolutely acceptable from an

ethical perspective.

5. Ethical Implication - the impact or consequences that psychological

research has on the rights of other people in a wider context, not just the

participants taking part in the research

METHODOLOGY
 This chapter presents the research design, environment, respondents,

instrument and procedure used in conducting the study.

Research Design

The descriptive case study was used as the research design by the researchers.

Case study mainly focuses on participants’ experiences of a complex phenomenon in a

single setting or group. In this study, it mainly focuses on an ethical issue, specifically

regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Many people, particularly students, have

become reliant on AI to complete their projects, papers, and activities. In this study,

survey questionnaires were used as the data source to determine participants'

perceptions of AI systems.

Research Environment

This research was conducted among the 2nd Year College Students of New Era

University. Survey questionnaires were distributed through online platforms for them to

fill up the form anywhere they want to.

Research Respondents

The respondents of the study are among the students from 2nd Year College of

New Era University. The researchers used random sampling in choosing the

respondents. Random sampling is technique used in conducting a research wherein a

sub group is chosen from a population in which all members of the population have an
equal probability of being chosen and be included in the sample. Therefore, each 2nd

Year student of New Era University has an equal chance of being selected and be part

of the research. The researchers chose this type of sampling as it is an effective way to

avoid any form of sampling bias.

Research Instrument

To get the appropriate data needed, the researchers provided survey

questionnaires among the 2nd Year College students. The survey questionnaire

contains questions relating to the perspective of 2nd year college students regarding the

use of AI systems. It contains open-ended questions that allow respondents to answer it

based on their understanding and give them the freedom to express themselves freely.

Their responses/feedback determined how they perceive the ethical challenges and

concerns associated with the use of AI.

Gathering of Data

In order to gather important data needed and to be able to complete the

research, the researchers formulated an open-ended survey questionnaire for the

respondents. An open-ended survey questionnaire contains questions that can’t be

answerable by yes or no. It will elaborate the respondents’ thoughts and perspective

and get their feedback about AI systems. Each participant was given one questionnaire

that will be answered with honesty. This survey determined the different perspectives of

2nd Year college students on the ethical considerations of using AI.

RESULTS & DISCUSSION
Presentation of Data

This chapter deals with the presentation, summary and conclusion of the collected data.

In which we gathered responses were 20 from 2nd Year College Students in NEW ERA

UNIVERSITY.

Figure 1. Are you familiar with the use of AI in Education.

Figure 1 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

acknowledged the familiarization of the use of AI in education with 19 out 20

participants (95%) by Seo, K., Tang, J., Roll, I. et al (2021) say that “Artificial intelligence

(AI) systems offer effective support for online learning and teaching, including

personalizing learning for students, automating instructors’ routine tasks, and powering
adaptive assessments.” Therefore, Mostly of the respondents have a knowledge of AI

that are being used in Education.

Figure 2. In your opinion, what are the potential benefits of using AI as an educational

tool?

Figure 2 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

agreed that 75% of them Improved access to educational resources followed by

Efficient administrative tasks, Enhanced student engagement, Personalized learning

experiences. In addition, It highlights the positive outcomes of using AI to their learning

style and education.

Figure 3. What concerns, if any, do you have regarding the use of AI in education?
Figure 3 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

are having concerns about Ethical implications of decision making algorithms. A

statement said that Kate Crawford say that "Powerful algorithms have the potential to

make decisions that deeply affect individuals and society, yet they often operate in

opaque ways with limited oversight. We must grapple with the ethical implications of

deploying these systems, ensuring that they are fair, transparent, and accountable to

prevent the perpetuation of biases and discrimination."

Figure 4. How important do you think it is to address ethical considerations when

implementing AI in education?
Figure 4 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

rate how important is ethical considerations when implementing AI in education as

Extremely important, with a percentage of 45%. Institutions should prioritize

accountability and transparency to ensure that decision-making processes and AI

algorithms are fair and just. Rules and regulations need to be put in place to protect

individual privacy, promote inclusion and promote equality of opportunity.

Figure 5. Should students be informed about when AI is being used to assess their

performance or make educational decisions?

Figure 5 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

rate on should students be informed about when AI is being used to assess their

performance or make educational decisions as Strongly agree, with a percentage of

50%. Therefore, Students seek on instructions and guidelines before AI takes over to

assess on their performance and educational decisions.

Figure 6. Do you believe that AI systems used in education should be transparent and

explainable?
Figure 6 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

stated that AI systems should be transparent and explainable. AI systems show’s that

explainability is closely related to the transparency and trustworthiness of AI systems.

This leads to the conclusion that systematically defining explainability requirements is

an important step in developing transparent and trustworthy AI systems.

Figure 7.How concerned are you about the potential bias and discrimination in AI

algorithms used in education?

Figure 7 states that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

are Very concerned about the potential bias and discrimination in AI algorithms used in

education. Well-documented human biases range from tacit association tests that

demonstrate biases we may not even be aware of, to field experiments that

demonstrate successful human biases. How this ant might affect the outcome. In

recent years, society has begun to wonder how these human biases can infiltrate

artificial intelligence systems, with adverse results. At a time when many companies are

looking to implement AI systems in their operations, being acutely aware of these risks

and working to mitigate them is an urgent priority.

Figure 8. Do you think there should be regulations or guidelines in place to govern the

use of AI in education?
Figure 8 stated that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

agreed that there should be regulations or guidelines in place to govern the use of AI in

education. Sensitive data should be protected, openness of AI algorithms should be

encouraged, bias and discrimination should be minimized, and institutions should be

held accountable for AI-driven decisions. and should address ethical issues related to

the use of AI. Effective regulation promotes trust and protects individual rights while

supporting fair and responsible AI practices in higher education.

Figure 9. Would you be willing to participate in a workshop or training program that

educates educators and administrators about the ethical use of AI in education?

Figure 9 stated that 2nd Year college courses from NEW ERA UNIVERSITY students

are willing to participate in a workshop or training program that educates educators and
administrators about the ethical use of AI in education. About 75% of the respondents

are still seeking knowledge on AI that will be use in education.

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

This study presents the insights to understand the Perceptions of New Era

University Students on the Ethical Considerations of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an

Educational Tool. Results were obtained and are based on the analysis of data

gathered, and thus, are presented below.

1. What is the profile of the students-respondents of New Era University in terms

of:

1.1 Year level; the majority of the respondents are first year level.

1.2 Program; the majority of the respondents are under the BS Accountancy

program.
2. Familiarity of the students with the use of AI in education:

2.1 The majority of the respondents are familiar with the use of AI in education.

3. Advantage and disadvantage of the use of AI as an educational tool:

3.1 Advantage; majority of the respondents say that it improves access to

educational resources.

3.2 Disadvantage; majority of the respondents say that it affects the ethical

implications of decision-making algorithms.

4. How important it is to address ethical considerations when implementing AI in

education:

4.1 The majority of the respondents say that it is extremely important to address

ethical considerations when implementing AI in education.

5. AI systems used in education should be transparent and explainable:

5.1 The majority of the respondents say that it should be transparent and

explainable.

6. Should students be informed when AI is being used to assess their

performance or make educational decisions:

6.1 The majority of the respondents say that they strongly agree with it.
7. How concerned they are about the potential bias and discrimination in AI

algorithms used in education:

7.1 The majority of the respondents say that they are very concerned with it.

8. There should be regulations or guidelines in place to govern the use of AI in

education:

8.1 All of the respondents say that there should be regulations or guidelines in place

to govern the use of AI in education.

9. Are they willing to participate in a workshop or training program that educates

educators and administrators about the ethical use of AI in education?

9.1 The majority of the respondents say that they are willing to participate in a

workshop or training program that educates educators and administrators about the

ethical use of AI in education.

The flow of the study and how the researchers came up with the study. First, we present

the profile of the respondents such as year level and program and it includes the

familiarity of them with the use of AI in education. Second, the process that contains the

constructed survey questionnaire. Third, the output that represents the Perceptions of

New Era University Students on the Ethical Considerations of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

as an Educational Tool.
CONCLUSION

To conclude, New Era University students' perceptions of the ethical considerations of

Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an educational tool are shaped by a relatively high level of

familiarity with AI in education, with the majority of respondents (95%) demonstrating a

familiarity with AI. This acknowledges the potential educational benefits, such as

improved access to educational resources, more efficient administrative duties,

increased student involvement, and tailored learning experiences.

I. Context and means in which AI facilitates the learning of students.

Transparency and explainability were regarded as essential qualities for AI

systems used in education by 90% of the respondents. Furthermore, the

majority of the sample agreed that students should be informed when AI is

used to assess their performance or make educational decisions,

emphasizing the significance of transparency and fairness. The concern

about potential bias and discrimination in AI algorithms used in education

was considered very important by 45% of the respondents. This highlights

the need to address and mitigate biases to ensure fair and equitable

educational outcomes.

II. Evident moral and ethical considerations present in the usage of AI.

The findings expressed several concerns about the ethical implications of

AI in education. The most prominent concern among the respondents was

 the ethical implications of decision-making algorithms, which was deemed

extremely important by all participants. Additionally, the lack of human

interaction, privacy and data security, and potential bias and discrimination

in AI algorithms were identified as significant concerns. The importance of

addressing ethical considerations in implementing AI in education was

acknowledged by the majority of the sample, with 45% considering it

extremely important and 35% considering it very important. This highlights

the awareness and recognition of the need for ethical safeguards when

utilizing AI as an educational tool.

III. Use of AI as an educational tool and its purpose and efficacy of

traditional education.

All respondents agreed that regulations or guidelines should be

established to govern the use of AI in education, underscoring the

importance of a regulatory framework to ensure responsible and ethical AI

implementation. As Holmes et al. (2018) had said, the establishment of

such regulations would further facilitate the use of AI in various fields -

providing better efficacy and effectivity towards the outcomes. Finally, a

significant proportion of the sample (75%) expressed willingness to

participate in workshops or training programs that educate educators and

administrators about the ethical use of AI in education. This indicates a

 desire among students to actively engage in discussions and initiatives

aimed at promoting ethical AI practices in the educational setting.

Overall, the data indicate that New Era University students are well aware of the

potential benefits and ethical implications of using AI as an educational tool. Their

perspectives emphasize the significance of openness, justice, and the necessity to

address ethical problems while implementing AI in education. The findings also highlight

the students' eagerness to participate actively in advancing ethical AI practices through

education and training activities. Communicating the need of developers considering

ethical challenges and concerns in AI creation. This implies that the wise and moderate

integration of AI would help education, whereas dependence on such an unrefined

technology would result in adverse effects and other unforeseen consequences.

RECOMMENDATION

As the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education evolves, it is critical to highlight the

ethical concerns that accompany its application. The recommendations to the entities

listed below are intended to provide direction on how each can contribute to developing

an ethical framework for AI in education. By keeping in mind the recommendations, the

world can collectively aim to maximize the benefits of AI while limiting potential hazards

and protecting learners' well-being.

I. Students: Learners should take an active role in learning about the ethical

issues surrounding AI in education. This would allow students to arrive at

educated decisions and advocate for appropriate practices about the

potential advantages and risks linked with its use. Furthermore, it is critical

to actively participate in discussions and initiatives concerning AI ethics in

education. Lastly, participating in workshops or training programs that

teach people about the ethical use of AI in education while also improving

their digital literacy skills would allow students to navigate and critically

evaluate AI-based educational technologies.

II. Instructors and Educational Institutions: As the primary guide of

students in the academe, it is important to design and execute specific

policies and standards that address the ethical implications of artificial

intelligence in education. Transparency, explainability, fairness, privacy,

and the appropriate use of student data should be emphasized in these

regulations. This denotes the how critical it is to provide thorough training

and professional development opportunities for educators on the ethical

use of AI in education. Teachers must be aware of the potential risks

connected with AI systems. Involving students and other stakeholders in

decision-making processes, as well as encouraging open communication,

will resolve concerns and promote responsible behavior. Regularly

analyzing the influence of AI on educational achievements and student

 experiences will guarantee that ethical standards are met and that

inclusive learning environments are promoted.

III. Future Researchers and Academics: It is recommended to conduct

research on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in education as

the gaps are still far too wide for global diffusion. Topics like as algorithmic

bias, privacy problems, human-AI interaction, and the socio-cultural

impact of AI systems will help advance the field's understanding. Sharing

research findings and insights through academic publications,

conferences, and workshops will raise awareness and help to build best

practices. Hence the need to perform dialogues and collaborations among

researchers, educators, policymakers, and industry professionals which

would aid the development of a comprehensive knowledge of AI ethics in

education.

IV. Society: Society has an enormous effect on the ethical usage of AI in

education. It is critical to support efforts and organizations that promote

ethical AI practices in education. Above that, it is also important to

encourage the general public to develop digital literacy and awareness in

order to allow citizens to make informed judgments on the usage of AI in

education. Hence, legislators must prioritize the establishment of

legislation and standards that address the ethical implications of AI in

education. Advocating for the inclusion of ethics education in curricula will

better equip students to use AI technologies responsibly.

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