Exploring Barriers to AI Course Assistant Adoption: A Mixed-Methods Study on Student Non-Utilization

This research investigates the factors behind the non-utilization of the AI course assistant Spark among students at Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU). Despite AI’s proven ability to enhance academic performance, motivation, and efficiency, a significant portion of students choose not to engage with this technology. Through a mixed-methods exploratory approach, key barriers to adoption are identified, including perceptions of unnecessity, lack of interest, and unfamiliarity with AI tools. External challenges, such as technical issues and a preference for traditional learning methods, are also examined. By combining sentiment analysis with thematic analysis of student survey responses, the findings offer a comprehensive understanding of the reasons for non-use. Targeted strategies—improving communication about AI’s benefits, providing training to build familiarity, and integrating AI more seamlessly into coursework—are recommended to increase adoption. Addressing these barriers is crucial, as non-utilization not only limits individual academic growth but also undermines efforts to equip students with essential skills for an AI-driven future. This research contributes to the growing literature on AI in education and provides actionable insights for educators and institutions seeking to maximize the impact of AI on learning outcomes.