When Student Groups Use Generative AI in Collaborative Activities: Exploring Group Discussion and Personal Factors

• In Event: Critical Reflection of AI Integration in Education

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of AI technologies, interest is growing in using GenAI to support cognitively demanding collaborative learning. While its effectiveness depends on how and when it is used, which may be shaped by individual learners and group dynamics, these processes remain underexplored. This study analyzes video recordings of student groups solving ill-structured problems to identify patterns of GenAI use and examine how personal factors and group composition influence usage. Findings suggest that learners’ competencies and within-group alignment can affect GenAI use. These findings highlight the need for further research to consider learner backgrounds and variability in AI-integrated collaborative learning environments in order to better support group cognitive processes and guide the design of more effective collaborative learning environments.

Authors

• Jeongwon Lee, The Ohio State University

• Haeun Park, The Ohio State University

• Tzu-Jung Lin, The Ohio State University

• Thomas Bihari, The Ohio State University