Enhancing Counselor Education with AI Chatbots: Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence and Counseling Skill Development

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 1:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Artificial Intelligence and Innovation in Counselor Education

Abstract

This mixed-method study examined the use of an AI chatbot (i.e., ChatGPT) to support counseling skill development among master’s students. The study aims to understand how an AI chatbot assignment influences students’ AI attitudes and counseling skills. Data sources include (a) pre/post surveys on students’ AI attitudes and counselling skills, and (b) students’ reflection papers on their experiences of using ChatGPT to practice counseling interview skills. Results revealed a significant interaction effect on students’ perceived efficacy in working with challenging clients, particularly in terms of anticipated relationship-building. Our thematic analysis of students’ reflections on using ChatGPT to practice counseling interviews also identified five key positive experiences and five main challenges. Limitations and implications of the study are discussed.

Authors

• Eunae Han, University of Texas - El Paso

• Pei-Ling Hsu, University of Texas - El Paso