V. Senthur Velmurugan |
Kongu Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Nanjanapuram, Erode, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
This study examines the experience of research scholars, instructors and students of university libraries using AI research assistants in Tamil Nadu universities and how they use artificial intelligence software to enhance academic research. In a time when AI-based tools such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, Turnitin, Semantic Scholar and Zotero become even more ubiquitous, the study investigates usage patterns, perceived advantages, disadvantages and library system readiness for embracing such technology. 150 Tamil Nadu state, central, deemed and private university respondents participated in a standard questionnaire. Postgraduate students (28.0%) and PhD research scholars (38.7%) are the most common users of AI research assistants, indicated the survey finding. The most common use is from science and technology study streams (36.7%) and the most common attendance is from state university institutions (45.3%). Users use AI tools primarily to read books, assist them in writing academically, cite them and check for plagiarism. Though they are all highly valuable, the research also raises questions regarding ethical use, digital illiteracy and uneven access in university departments and institutions. The research emphasises the need for courses in AI literacy, codes of ethics and other infrastructure support for the academic library. The research then illustrates how AI research assistants, with supportive library policy and instruction, can significantly impact scholarly integrity, research productivity and user empowerment in higher education.
Keywords: Academic Support, Artificial Intelligence, Research Assistants, Tamil Nadu, University Libraries, User Experience
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