Exploring the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence Awareness and Its Use Among Students: Cadi Ayyad University as A Case Study

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing higher education by providing advanced tools for learning and skill development. This study examines the relationship between AI awareness and its use among students at Cadi Ayyad University (UCA), Marrakesh, Morocco. Through a quantitative analysis of survey data from 370 respondents across various faculties, the study highlights the significant role of AI awareness in influencing students’ perceptions and adoption of AI tools, particularly in language learning. Findings unveil that the level of AI awareness among Cadi Ayyad university students is greatly higher, with approximately 74.9% of respondents expressing familiarity with AI concepts, 70.6% of them demonstrating an understanding of AI’s practical applications, and 56.4% of them acknowledging its limitations. More importantly, respondents with higher AI awareness are more likely to leverage AI applications for academic purposes, such as vocabulary building, writing assistance, and communication skills. However, gaps persist in understanding AI’s limitations and ethical implications. Therefore, the study advocates for targeted initiatives to enhance AI literacy, such as integrating AI education into curricula and providing access to advanced AI tools. These efforts are essential to maximize the benefits of AI in higher education and improve student learning outcomes.