We are delighted to announce that a student team from the Department of Public and International Affairs (PIA) has been selected as one of the winning projects for Impact Creator Award under the Learning: Experience, Achieve, and Develop (LEAD) Scheme.

 

The award-winning project, “The Impact of Generative AI Use and Dependency on University Students’ Learning: A Case Study of City University of Hong Kong”, was completed by four students from the Bachelor of Social Sciences in Public Affairs and Management (PAFM): CHAN Ka Man, LOK Wing Lam, NG Pui Yee Joey, and MAK Chi Kit, under the supervision of Dr. Nick OR.

 

The project examines how generative AI usage and dependency affect students’ academic performance, learning behaviour, and learning quality. Using a mixed-methods approach, the team conducted both a survey and a behavioural experiment to compare writing tasks under AI-assisted and non-AI conditions. Their findings show that while AI can improve essay quality and task efficiency, especially for students with higher AI dependency, its impact on learning depends largely on how it is used. The project makes a thoughtful distinction between substitution-oriented use, where AI replaces thinking, and support-oriented use, where AI enhances learning, critical thinking, and digital literacy.

 

The Selection Panel recognised the project’s strong relevance to Quality Education (Sustainable Development Goal 4), as well as its originality, practical insights, and potential for broader educational impact. The team’s work also highlights the importance of maintaining active student engagement and academic judgment in an AI-supported learning environment.

 

This achievement reflects the students’ dedication, creativity, and excellent teamwork. Congratulations to the team on this well-deserved accomplishment!