Navigating challenges and opportunities: Nursing student's views on generative AI in higher education

This qualitative study aims to explore the perspectives of nursing students regarding the application and integration of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in their studies. With the increasing prevalence of generative AI tools in academic settings, there is a growing interest in their use among students for learning and assessments. Employing a qualitative descriptive design, this study used semi-structured interviews with nursing students to capture the nuanced insights of the participants. Semi-structured interviews were digitally recorded and then transcribed verbatim. The research team reviewed all the data independently and then convened to discuss and reach a consensus on the identified themes. This study was conducted within the discipline of nursing at a regional Australian university. Thirteen nursing students, from both first and second year of the programme, were interviewed as part of this study. Six distinct themes emerged from the data analysis, including the educational impact of AI tools, equitable learning environment, ethical considerations of AI use, technology integration, safe and practical utility and generational differences. This initial exploration sheds light on the diverse perspectives of nursing students concerning the incorporation of generative AI tools in their education. It underscores the potential for both positive contributions and challenges associated with the integration of generative AI in nursing education and practice. •There is a lack of understanding on how generative AI can positively be used.•There is a benefit to using generative AI for non-face-to-face nursing tasks.•If used ethically generative AI will benefit students.•Nursing degrees lose value if generative AI is used unethically.•The nuances of face-to-face nursing is not replicable by generative AI.