Title: THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON STUDENT LEARNING

Program: Mathematics MS

Committee Chair: Brinley Stringer

Committee: Brinley Stringer, Joe Champion, Ti Macklin

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools on students’ academic habits, higher-order thinking skills, and metacognitive awareness within undergraduate mathematics and writing foundations programs. Applying a mixed-methods approach during the Fall 2025 semester, data were gathered through pre- and post-semester student surveys, focus groups, and a faculty qualitative survey. Preliminary findings highlight tension between efficiency and authentic learning, with students utilizing AI for rapid learning support despite expressing concerns about academic integrity and content quality. Quantitative analysis demonstrated a significant perception gap, as students rated their own metacognitive awareness and responsible AI use significantly higher than faculty. While AI offers potential for personalized support, the results suggest undergraduate programs would benefit from addressing misalignment between faculty and student perceptions of AI.