Trends and Achievements in Learning Technology

Trends and Achievements in Learning Technology

Factors Influencing the Acceptance and Use of Artificial Intelligence Among Students: Extending the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Methods, Educational Planning and Curriculum, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the factors influencing the acceptance and use of artificial intelligence technology among higher education students, based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, and to extend it by incorporating the construct of “perceived risk.” The research employed a descriptive–correlational design. The study population consisted of students at the University of Tehran; 335 participants were selected using convenient sampling. Data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire based on the UTAUT model and relevant prior studies. The questionnaire’s reliability and validity were confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha (0.78 to 0.91) and confirmatory factor analysis with appropriate fit indices (CFI > 0.90, RMSEA < 0.08). Data were analyzed using SPSS-27 and AMOS-24, employing covariance-based structural equation modeling. The results showed that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence had positive and significant effects on behavioral intention, whereas facilitating conditions and perceived risk did not have significant effects. Moreover, behavioral intention had a strong and significant effect on actual technology-use behavior. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening infrastructure, simplifying AI tools, providing targeted training, and emphasizing the benefits of this technology to enhance student acceptance. These results can be used to design and improve AI-related educational programs in higher education.
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Subjects

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  • Receive Date 31 January 2026
  • Revise Date 15 May 2026
  • Accept Date 26 August 2026
  • Publish Date 27 September 2026