NAVIGATING the Landscape of ChatGPT as Artificial Intelligence Tool on Research Writing: A Phenomenological INQUIRY

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of graduate students using ChatGPT as an artificial intelligence tool in their research writing, dealing with lived experiences, coping strategies, and insights. The researcher employed a qualitative research method, specifically a phenomenological design, where graduate students from schools within the province of Davao del Sur, chosen via purposive sampling, were selected as study participants. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were employed to investigate the participants’ firsthand experiences. Colaizzi’s approach was applied to analyze the data, uncovering key themes relevant to each research inquiry. The findings revealed four key themes from the lived experiences of using ChatGPT: versatility, information inconsistencies, limited contextual understanding, and negative self-conscious emotions. The participants employed various coping strategies to address the challenges encountered while using ChatGPT, such as verifying AI-generated content, using ChatGPT judiciously, and providing detailed context to obtain more precise and relevant results. Participants also shared insights on incorporating ChatGPT into research, underlined the significance of its integration in educational settings, and emphasized the ethical conduct of research. These urged students to use ChatGPT responsibly to ensure their work remained original and adhered to academic integrity standards.