The Interplay Between Generative Artificial Intelligence Use and Ethical Awareness: Learners’ Perspectives

Abstract

The study aims to identify the areas in which Lithuanian learners use generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools across different educational institutions (universities, colleges, and vocational schools) and to assess the relationship between these areas of use and learners’ ethical awareness in terms of plagiarism, privacy, and misinformation. To achieve this goal, a literature review was conducted, and an empirical quantitative study was carried out among 803 learners from various educational institutions in Lithuania. The study examined the relationship between the use of GenAI for academic purposes and learners’ ethical awareness. The results revealed that most respondents use GenAI primarily for information search and learning, while fewer apply it for writing assignments or research activities. A positive association was identified between more active use of GenAI and higher levels of ethical awareness. The highest level of ethical awareness was observed among university students, while the lowest was found among vocational school respondents. These findings highlight the need to strengthen GenAI ethics guidelines and promote academic integrity.