Embracing AI Assistants: Unraveling Young Researchers' Journey with ChatGPT in Science Education Thesis Writing

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, in particular language models like ChatGPT, are attracting attention for their potential ability to replicate human text generation. AI-powered helpers in education, like ChatGPT, have the potential to improve thesis writing. The experiences of Dhaka University students who used ChatGPT extensively to write their science education theses in Bangladesh were examined in this study. It compared the difficulties folks who do not utilize AI confront to the advantages experienced by frequent ChatGPT users. Data was acquired using semi-structured questionnaires and then evaluated using coding techniques utilizing a case study methodology. The results brought to light the difficulties researchers face regarding methodological decision-making, tools development, data interpretation, etc. ChatGPT proved to be a useful tool that offers new perspectives, effective comparisons, quick responses, and more comprehensible research. However, due to ChatGPT's limitations, cautious use was suggested. The incorporation of ChatGPT opens up fresh research opportunities, highlighting the interdependence of technical support and human intuition. With useful applications for educational settings, the study demonstrated AI's capability at various phases of the thesis. Its findings give educators and organizations pointers on how to use AI to improve thesis writing procedures and aid researchers in their scholarly endeavors.