Secondary School Students’ Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools in Self-Directed Learning Contexts
(A Descriptive-Analytical Study)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33193/JEAHS.52.2026.781Keywords:
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) Tools; Generative AI-Supported Learning Environments; Self-Directed Learning SkillsAbstract
The present study aimed to investigate the extent to which secondary school students use Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) tools within self-directed learning contexts, specifically in the dimensions of planning, monitoring, and evaluation. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical research design. The study sample consisted of 100 students enrolled in Grades 10, 11, and 12 at Uqbah ibn Nafi Secondary School, affiliated with the General Directorate of Education in the Aseer Region, during the second semester of the 2026 academic year. To achieve objectives of this study, a questionnaire was developed as the primary data collection instrument after establishing its content validity and reliability. The findings revealed that the overall level of secondary school students’ use of generative AI tools in self-directed learning contexts was high, with an overall mean score of 3.85 out of 5.00. Regarding the dimensions of self-directed learning, planning skills ranked first with a high level of use (M = 3.98), followed by monitoring skills (M = 3.88), which also demonstrated a high level. Evaluation skills ranked last, with a moderate level of use (M = 3.65). The results further indicated that the most frequently utilized aspect of generative AI tools was their ability to guide students toward relevant educational resources, followed by their role in enhancing students’ independent research capabilities. Based on these findings, the study recommends promoting students’ deeper and more empowering use of generative AI tools, training them to formulate critical and inquiry-based questions, and developing guidelines that support the safe and ethical use of artificial intelligence in educational settings.
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