The Use and Perception of Large Language Models Chatbots Among DISSGEA Students at the Università degli Studi di Padova

This thesis investigates how the students of the DISSGEA at the Università degli Studi di Padova use and perceive Artificial Intelligence Chatbots. Through the application of anonymus online questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, I assessed how students use AI chatbots for academic, professional, and personal goals. The thesis argues that in order to promote responsible use of AI chatbots, Academia should promote metacognition which includes both technical knowledge of how AI chatbots operate and its limitations, as well as socio-emotional and cognitive support for students in order to increase their motivation to learn, promote critical thinking, reduce insecurities, and overall promote students feelings of agency over their studies.