Abstract:

The focus of this paper is quantitative research on STEM students concerning their use of artificial intelligence (AI) in academic writing, as well as their ethical views and future competence for labour market. Even though, writing should be one of the essential skills for future engineers, not only for writing clear and concise technical documentation but also for project collaboration, it is still a skill that is not highly developed.

Data was collected from 148 STEM students, of whom (51.3%) believe their writing skills are well developed, but many still report issues with editing and clarity in academic writing. Further analysis revealed that frequent AI use is connected to clearer writing structure and reduced stress. These findings provide interesting insight into AI functions, they are not only technical and cognitive support but can maybe be also emotional support. In this light, reduced stress may contribute to improved structure in writing.

Despite the fact that over 70% of students reported that AI use is ethically acceptable, only 16.2% stated that they always disclose AI usage. In line with these results, statistical test was applied and no significant connection was found between the belief that AI is ethically accepted and the actual disclosure of its use.

The problem that erupted is overreliance on AI in academic writing and also the need for more structural guiding about AI use in various institutions. AI should be a supportive tool for learning and improving certain skills but is should never replace essential skills like critical thinking and writing which are crucial for labour market.

Keywords:

Writing skills, AI, labour market, education, ethics.