Perceived Usefulness of ChatGPT for Learning Physics Components of Basic Science among Junior Secondary Students

Abstract

Background. The increasing use of generative AI in education has created new opportunities for students to obtain academic support beyond conventional classroom interaction. ChatGPT, in particular, can provide explanations, examples and assistance with academic tasks. However, limited evidence exists on how junior secondary school students perceive its usefulness for learning the Physics components of Basic Science, particularly within the Nigerian context. Objective. This study therefore examined students’ perceptions of ChatGPT as a learning support tool, with specific attention to its perceived usefulness for assignment and examination preparation and for learning Physics. Method. The study adopted a quantitative approach using a descriptive survey research design. The participants comprised 171 students from a purposively selected secondary school in Ibadan, Nigeria. Data were collected using a self-developed Students’ Perceptions of ChatGPT as a Learning Support Tool Questionnaire (SPC-LSTQ). A pilot study was conducted and analysed using Cronbach’s alpha, yielding reliability coefficients of 0.82 for Part One and 0.84 for Part Two. The data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, means and standard deviations in SPSS. A criterion mean of 2.50 was used to interpret the four-point Likert-scale responses. Results. The findings revealed an overall positive perception of ChatGPT for assignment and examination preparation (weighted mean = 2.95). Students also reported a positive perception of ChatGPT for learning Physics (weighted mean = 3.01). Conclusion. The findings indicate that the participating junior secondary school students perceived ChatGPT as a useful learning support tool for both academic tasks and learning Physics components of Basic Science. However, these positive perceptions represent students’ reported views and should not be interpreted as evidence of improved learning achievement or the accuracy of ChatGPT-generated responses.