EXPLORING TEACHER TRAINEES’ PERCEPTIONS TOWARDS THE USE OF ChatGPT IN LEARNING

Abstract

Findings from overseas studies had shown positive perceptions of using ChatGPT in education. This study was undertaken in a local context, to explore the perceptions towards the use of ChatGPT among teacher trainees in an institute of teacher education in Kota Samarahan, Sarawak. Objectives of the study were to determine the frequency of using ChatGPT as a learning tool, as well as how ChatGPT was perceived in relation to its usefulness, ease of use, engagement, relevance and effectiveness. The study was conducted using survey. Instrument of the study was constructed by the researchers with reference to various literature reviews related to features and benefits of ChatGPT. Analysis via descriptive statistics was conducted based on 416 trainees’ data. Results of analysis indicated that the use of ChatGPT was found to be moderately frequent among the trainees, and the use of ChatGPT as a learning tool was well-perceived by the trainees. The findings were discussed in light of how the use of ChatGPT can be intensified in institutes of teacher education. Recommendations were then proposed with the hope to maximise the benefits, and at the same time to minimise the threats of using ChatGPT in institutions of teacher education.