ACADEMY OF ST.

JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

“THE IMPACT OF ASJ STUDENT’S CRITICAL THINKING AND ACADEMIC

SUCCESS”

Academy of St. Joseph

Centro-1, Claveria , Cagayan

Senior High School Department

A Research Paper in Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements for the subject Practical Research 1 (Qualitative Research)

School Year 2024-2025

Presented to the Faculty and Staff of the Academy of St. Joseph - Senior High School
Department

By

Alben Jerald S. Cadornio

Anne Cherilu A. Nebab

Frank Benedict G. Domingo

Jeorge Simeon A. Taloza Jr.

Joshua Nathaniel A. Taloza

Princess Joy O. Lagran

Researchers

Mrs. Rachelle C. De Peralta, LPT

Adviser

February, 2025

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

A. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Artificial Intelligence (AI) enables computers to perform tasks that mimic human

cognitive abilities, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. It can be seen as

a shortcut, given its ability to automate processes based on specific instructions or programs.

As AI continues to rise in popularity, tools like AI chatbots have emerged as one of its most

notable applications. These chatbots, known for their convenience, are increasingly integrated

into various industries and everyday activities. From customer service to educational support,

they are widely adopted due to their efficiency and accessibility.

AI chatbots are extensively utilized across multiple sectors, including business,

healthcare, and government services. Companies leverage chatbots to enhance customer

engagement, streamline operations, and improve response times. In the corporate world, AI-

powered assistants handle customer inquiries, manage scheduling, and even provide technical

support, reducing the need for human intervention. In the Philippines, major companies such

as Globe Telecom and PLDT use AI chatbots to assist customers with billing inquiries,

service upgrades, and troubleshooting. Similarly, local banks like BDO and BPI have

integrated AI-powered chat systems to provide real-time customer support, improving

efficiency in handling transactions and account-related concerns. Nationally, the Philippine

government has also

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

started using AI chatbots for public service delivery, including platforms like the Bureau of

Internal Revenue's digital assistant for tax-related inquiries.

Popular AI chatbots include ChatGPT, which provides conversational assistance,

content generation, and problem-solving capabilities; Cici, an AI chatbot developed by

Huawei for intelligent customer service and smart solutions; and Google's Bard, which offers

advanced text-based AI assistance for research and learning. Additionally, Microsoft's

Copilot integrates AI-driven assistance into various applications, while IBM Watson is

widely used in enterprise solutions for data analysis and decision-making.

Despite the growing benefits of AI chatbots, concerns about their potential effects on

human cognitive abilities are rising due to increasing reliance. For example, frequent use of

these tools may undermine critical thinking and problem-solving skills, especially in

education. Students, for instance, often turn to AI chatbots for instant answers to academic

questions, reducing the effort required to analyze and solve problems independently. This

raises important questions about the long-term impact of AI chatbots on human capabilities,

particularly in areas such as education and personal growth.

In the Philippines, a country with a young and tech-savvy population, the integration

of AI in education is rapidly growing. A 2024 study by Instructure, an educational technology

company, reported that over 83% of Filipino students use AI tools to support their studies

(Admin, 2024). This widespread use of AI highlights the importance of examining its

potential effects on students’ academic development and cognitive skills. Many students rely

on chatbots to assist with assignments, provide explanations for complex topics, and generate

essay drafts.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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While these tools offer convenience, they also raise concerns about whether students are

engaging in deep learning or merely passively consuming information.

Students use AI chatbots in various ways to support their academic and

extracurricular activities. Some students utilize chatbots like ChatGPT and Bard to draft

essays, refine grammar, and summarize research materials, allowing them to save time in

writing assignments. Others use AI-powered tutoring systems such as Socratic and Quipper

to receive step-by-step explanations for complex subjects like mathematics and science. AI-

driven platforms like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor help students enhance their writing

skills by providing real-time grammar and readability suggestions. Additionally, language

learners use chatbots such as Duolingo's AI tutor to practice new languages through

interactive conversations. Computer science students often turn to AI-assisted coding tools

like GitHub Copilot for programming guidance, while business students may rely on AI-

generated market analysis reports for case studies and projects. Filipino students, in

particular, use AI chatbots in blended learning environments, leveraging these tools to clarify

concepts after online lectures or to generate ideas for creative projects. However, this

increasing dependence on AI in education raises concerns about students' ability to engage in

independent critical thinking and problem-solving.

ASJ High School in Claveria, Cagayan, provides an ideal setting to explore the impact

of AI chatbots on education. With its diverse student body, ASJ offers valuable insights into

how these tools influence students’ learning experiences, particularly in terms of critical

thinking. Observing students' interactions with AI chatbots can help determine whether these

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
tools foster deeper
ACADEMY OF ST.understanding
JOSEPH or create dependency,
SENIORultimately shaping their
HIGH SCHOOL ability to
DEPARTMENT

analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information independently.

The findings of this study will provide a clearer understanding of whether AI chatbots

enhance or hinder students’ cognitive growth, offering educators, policymakers, and students

themselves guidance on how to best incorporate AI tools into the learning process.

Furthermore, these insights may inform national education policies on AI integration,

ensuring that technological advancements support, rather than diminish, critical thinking

skills among learners.

Critical thinking plays a vital role in fostering independent learning. Its significance in

decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity equips students to adapt effectively to

various situations and overcome challenges they encounter. If the use of chatbots influences

students' ability to think critically, this impact could have profound implications for their

future academic and personal development.

In summary, the rationale for studying the effects of AI chatbots on ASJ students'

critical thinking lies in analyzing their usage patterns, evaluating their cognitive impact, and

understanding the broader educational implications. By exploring both the benefits and risks,

this study aims to provide a balanced perspective on AI chatbot integration in education,

ensuring that technological advancements are harnessed effectively for academic growth.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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B. RESEARCH PARADIGM

Independent: Dependent:

Ai Chabot usage Students’ Cognitive and

Academic Effects:

 Critical thinking

 Academic Success

 Dependency on Ai

 Creative Thinking

C. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its integration into education, particularly

through the use of AI chatbots, has sparked debates on their impact on students' cognitive

development. While these tools offer significant convenience and efficiency, concerns are

emerging about their potential effects on critical thinking skill, a cornerstone of independent

learning and academic success.

In ASJ High School in Claveria, Cagayan, where students increasingly rely on AI

tools for educational support, it becomes imperative to investigate whether these tools

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
enhance or hinder
ACADEMY OF ST.cognitive
JOSEPH skills such as critical thinking,
SENIOR decision-making,
HIGH SCHOOLand problem-
DEPARTMENT

solving. Specifically, the study seeks to answer:

1. To determine the demographic profile of the students in terms of:

1.1. Age

1.2. Grade level

1.3. Gender

2. To what extent do AI chatbots influence ASJ students' critical thinking skills?

3. How do AI chatbots impact students' academic success in terms of problem-solving

and independent learning?

4. What are ASJ students' perceptions regarding the benefits and drawbacks of using

AI chatbots in their studies?

By addressing these questions, the study aims to provide insights into the broader

implications of AI chatbot usage on students’ academic growth and cognitive abilities,

ensuring balanced integration of AI tools in educational settings.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

D. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ushered in a new era of

technological innovation, with AI chatbots emerging as powerful tools with the potential to

revolutionize various aspects of human life, including education. This study seeks to

understand how AI chatbots influence students' abilities to analyze information, evaluate

arguments, and solve problems independently.

This study aims to investigate the impact of AI chatbots on the critical thinking skills

and academic success of students at the Academy of St. Joseph students. The findings of this

research will have significant implications for:

Students:

Understanding this study will help motivate students to utilize these tools effectively

to enhance their learning and achieve better academic result, learn important skills, and their

responsible and ethical use in an academic setting

Educators:

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
 The educators
ACADEMY can gain insights to search theSENIOR
OF ST. JOSEPH best ways to useSCHOOL
HIGH Ai in classDEPARTMENT
effectively

and safely. They can better improve their teaching skills. They will be able to understand how

ai chatbots are impacting student learning.

Future Researchers:

This ideas presented in this study will benefit the future researches as this will serve

as a reference data in conducting new researches related to the findings. This study will also

contribute to a growing body of research on the impact of Ai on education. It will help other

researchers explore this topic in more detail.

E. SCOPE AND DELIMINATION

This study focuses on exploring the effects of AI chatbots on critical thinking and

academic development among students at ASJ High School in Claveria, Cagayan. The

research will specifically examine how students perceive and interact with AI chatbots in

their learning process. It will explore whether these tools support or hinder their critical

thinking skills and overall academic growth.

The study will include 10 respondents per grade level, with 5 boys and 5 girls from

both junior and senior levels at ASJ High School. This ensures a balanced representation of

both genders across the grade levels. The respondents will be selected solely from ASJ, and

the study will not include students from other schools or regions.

While the research will explore the general use of AI chatbots in education, it will

specifically focus on chatbots as a learning tool, excluding other types of AI tools. The study

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
will be based
ACADEMY OFon
ST.surveys
JOSEPH and interviews with SENIOR
students, HIGH
focusing on theirDEPARTMENT
SCHOOL immediate

experiences and perspectives. It will not involve in-depth technical analysis of AI chatbot

systems nor explore external factors, such as personal background or socioeconomic

status,that could influence academic development.

The study will also exclude the viewpoints of teachers and parents, and will not track

long-term changes in students' academic performance over an extended period of time. The

scope is limited to capturing the short-term effects of AI chatbot use on critical thinking and

academic development.

F. DEFINITION OF TERMS

Artificial Intelligence (AI) - AI is when machines, like computers, can do tasks that usually

need human thinking, like learning, solving problems, and making decisions. In school, AI is

used to make learning easier, like through AI chatbots or other helpful tools.

AI Chatbots - AI chatbots are computer programs that talk like humans. They answer

questions, help with information, and assist with tasks. In education, students use AI chatbots

to get help with studying or to learn new things.

Critical Thinking - Critical thinking is about looking at information carefully, questioning it,

and thinking about it in different ways. It’s when you don’t just take things at face value, but

instead dig deeper to understand why or how something works. It's important for solving

problems and really understanding what you’re learning.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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Academic Development
ACADEMY - Academic development SENIOR
OF ST. JOSEPH is about growing in your knowledge
HIGH SCHOOL and
DEPARTMENT

skills in school. It’s not just about memorizing things, but also getting better at thinking

critically, solving problems, and using what you learn in different ways.

Dependence on AI Tools - Dependence on AI tools means relying too much on AI to find

answers or solve problems, instead of figuring things out on your own. This can stop students

from developing their own thinking and problem-solving skills.

Independent Learning - Independent learning is when students take charge of their own

learning, like setting goals, finding resources, and figuring things out on their own without

needing too much help from teachers or AI. It helps build skills like self-motivation and

problem-solving.

Educational Technology - Educational technology refers to tools, apps, or systems used to

help with learning. This can be anything from AI-based systems to online platforms that

make studying or teaching easier.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents an overview of existing literature related to AI chatbots and

their impact on critical thinking and academic development. The review synthesizes studies,

theories, and frameworks that provide a foundation for understanding how AI chatbots are

used in educational settings and their potential to influence students’ cognitive processes.

Overview of Chatbots

Adamopoulou et al. (2020) highlight the significant advancements in chatbot

development and their growing presence across various sectors. In customer service, chatbots

operate continuously, handling numerous customers simultaneously and significantly

reducing payroll costs. In education, they assist a larger number of students by offering

educational content and personalized support.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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Applications of AI Chatbots in Academic Settings

Labadze et al. (2023) acknowledge that AI chatbots can offer various benefits to both

students and educators. However, they emphasize the importance of addressing several

concerns to maximize their potential. To ensure the effective use of AI chatbots, educational

institutions should implement proactive measures. These include (a) raising awareness among

students about issues such as digital inequality, the reliability of AI chatbots, and ethical

implications, and (b) providing continuous professional development for educators. This

training should initially focus on equipping educators with strategies to incorporate diverse

classroom activities and assignments into the curriculum that foster critical thinking and

problem-solving skills while maintaining fair assessment standards. Additionally, the training

should inform educators about the capabilities of AI chatbots and offer best practices for their

effective integration into teaching methodologies.

Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning

Gökçearslan et al. (2024) discuss the benefits of AI chatbots in education,

emphasizing several advantages for both students and educators. For students, key benefits

include increased motivation to learn, improved language skills, and enhanced academic

performance. Educators, on the other hand, benefit from AI chatbots in terms of cost-

effectiveness, reduced workload, and access to additional educational resources.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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Supporting Personalized Learning

Ifelebuegu (2023) emphasizes that AI chatbots can significantly enhance personalized

learning by providing tailored instruction and feedback based on each student’s individual

needs and progress. By adapting to students’ unique learning preferences and abilities, these

tools offer a more customized and effective educational experience, promoting greater

engagement and learning outcomes.

Immediate Access to Information

Pimentel et al. (2024) found that students show significant interest in the benefits of

using AI chatbots. While there is a moderate increase in engagement, these tools have the

potential to enhance learning by providing interactive and dynamic opportunities.

Additionally, a strong correlation exists between students’ perceived benefits and their

engagement levels, indicating that as students perceive more advantages, their engagement

increases, suggesting that AI chatbots can promote active participation and meaningful

interactions in education.

The Risk of Academic Dishonesty

The integration of AI chatbots in education raises significant ethical concerns,

particularly regarding academic integrity. Specifically, the ease of generating AI-assisted

content may tempt students to submit work that is not their own, thereby prioritizing grades

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
over genuineOFlearning
ACADEMY (Teel et al., 2023; Williams,
ST. JOSEPH 2024).
SENIOR HIGHIn addition,
SCHOOLthe advanced
DEPARTMENT

capabilities of chatbots to generate sophisticated responses further increase the risk of

academic dishonesty, as students may become overly reliant on AI-generated work rather

than actively developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills (Tlili et al., 2023;

Els, 2022). Therefore, addressing these concerns requires a balanced approach that not only

integrates AI chatbots into education effectively but also ensures they enhance learning

without undermining academic integrity.

Disparities in Access to Advanced Chatbot Tools

The use of ChatGPT in education presents both opportunities and challenges that can

influence students’ critical thinking skills. On the one hand, ChatGPT enhances efficiency by

handling routine inquiries, allowing educators to focus on higher-order tasks that promote

critical thinking, while also providing students with immediate academic support and

feedback. On the other hand, concerns arise about the accuracy of information provided by

ChatGPT, which could affect the development of critical thinking if students rely on

inaccurate or incomplete responses. Additionally, the potential loss of personal interaction

between educators and students may hinder opportunities for dialogue and deeper

engagement, which are essential for fostering critical thinking skills (Limna et al., 2023).

Therefore, while ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for supporting critical thinking, its use in

education must be carefully managed to address these concerns and maximize its potential

benefits.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

Kooli (2023) highlights the significant risks posed by chatbots in academic settings,

particularly regarding their potential to facilitate cheating during assessments, exams, and

projects. Chatbots can offer students instant solutions to academic questions, which may

encourage academic dishonesty and hinder genuine learning. Additionally, the availability of

more advanced or superior chatbots to wealthier students could create disparities in access,

further exacerbating inequalities. Therefore, it is crucial for students to dedicate themselves to

mastering the course content and acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills through

legitimate means. Moreover, maintaining academic integrity and ethical standards across

educational environments is essential. Looking ahead, concerns about the influence of

chatbots

on future generations’ educational outcomes may intensify. The reliance on these tools could

result in diminished critical thinking and independent problem-solving abilities, leading to a

generation of students who are overly dependent on technology and less capable of critical or

creative thought.

Upholding Academic Honesty and Ethics

Ajayi (2024) acknowledges the significant advantages that AI chatbots bring to

education, yet he highlights the potential for academic dishonesty as a growing concern

(Dehouche, 2021; Debby et al., 2023). Specifically, students may misuse chatbots to

complete assignments, quizzes, or exams, as the sophisticated AI can generate high-quality

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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text that easily
ACADEMY OFbypasses plagiarism detection systems
ST. JOSEPH (Gao etHIGH
SENIOR al., 2023). Consequently,
SCHOOL this
DEPARTMENT

poses a threat to the integrity of assessment processes. As AI chatbots continue to evolve, the

challenge of detecting instances of cheating becomes more difficult, underscoring the need

for robust measures to ensure academic honesty (Sullivan et al., 2023). Thus, while the

benefits of AI chatbots in education are apparent, their potential misuse requires careful

consideration and proactive solutions to maintain academic integrity.

The Potential Decline in Critical Thinking Skills

Davar et al. (2024) highlight the numerous advantages of AI chatbots like ChatGPT in

education, but they also acknowledge the potential drawbacks. While these tools can enhance

learning, excessive reliance on them may limit students’ ability to think critically and solve

problems independently (Alabool, 2023). The convenience of immediate answers may hinder

students’ engagement with the learning process, and any technical issues could disrupt the

educational experience (Alabool, 2023). Furthermore, frequent use of AI chatbots could

potentially diminish the development of critical thinking skills, as students may bypass the

cognitive effort required to engage with the material, ultimately impacting their overall

learning experience (Mosaiyebzadeh et al., 2023). Therefore, it is crucial to balance the

benefits of AI chatbots with the need for active, independent learning to ensure their effective

integration into educational settings.

Over-reliance on Technology and Its Consequences

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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 Over-reliance
ACADEMY on AI tools, such as chatbots,
OF ST. JOSEPH SENIORcan HIGH
significantly
SCHOOL affect students’
DEPARTMENT

creativity and critical thinking abilities. As noted by Zhai et al. (2024), students may become

dependent on AI-generated content, neglecting their own intellectual development and

problem-solving skills, leading to a reduction in engagement with learning materials.

Additionally, the ethical concerns related to plagiarism and data bias are crucial, as uncritical

use of AI can lead to academic dishonesty, especially when AI-generated content lacks

sufficient explanation (Kim et al., 2023). Furthermore, biases present in AI models can

perpetuate societal inequities, producing skewed or discriminatory outcomes (Grassini,

2023). In the long run, this over-reliance on AI tools might impair students’ ability to

independently analyze information, form reasoned arguments, and engage in deep critical

thinking (Koos & Wachsmann, 2023).

Therefore, while AI chatbots can be valuable tools, their unchecked use could hinder the

development of essential cognitive and analytical skills.

Encouraging Independent Problem-Solving Abilities

As emphasized by Woo et al. (2023), ChatGPT can promote divergent thinking by

presenting students with a wide array of potential solutions, which encourages them to

broaden their thinking and consider a greater variety of options. This exposure allows

students to identify and select the most suitable solutions for their problems (Mumford et al.,

1991; 2019). Furthermore, ChatGPT plays a role in the iterative process of idea development.

By offering students the opportunity to explore their ideas in greater depth, ChatGPT helps

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
them refine their
ACADEMY OF ST.concepts
JOSEPHand delve deeper into the problem
SENIOR space.SCHOOL
HIGH This iterative process
DEPARTMENT

enables the creation of more comprehensive and well-thought-out solutions. In addition,

engaging with ChatGPT can inspire the fusion of diverse concepts, which contributes to more

original and innovative solutions. This effect is particularly noticeable among students with

more experience using ChatGPT, as they are better equipped to leverage the tool for creative

problem-solving (Urban et al., 2023).

This approach illustrates how AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, can encourage students

to think critically and independently, fostering the development of creative problem-solving

skills. Through exposing students to multiple solutions, supporting iterative exploration, and

sparking

new connections, ChatGPT contributes to cultivating a deeper level of thinking and problem-

solving ability.

Long-Term Effects on Learning and Cognitive Development

Parsakia (2023) discusses the dual impact of chatbots on users’ problem-solving

abilities, emphasizing that these AI tools can influence users both positively and negatively.

On one hand, chatbots can enhance critical cognitive processes such as logical reasoning,

hypothesis testing, and decision-making, promoting effective problem-solving skills.

However, challenges arise when users encounter complex problems that exceed the chatbot’s

programmed capabilities, potentially causing frustration and leading to overconfidence in

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
their own problem-solving
ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH skills. Additionally, the SENIOR
ease of using
HIGH chatbots
SCHOOL mightDEPARTMENT
discourage

users from exploring alternative problem-solving strategies or thinking creatively. Despite

these limitations, chatbots offer valuable opportunities for interactive learning experiences,

which can encourage users to engage more deeply with the problem-solving process,

fostering both cognitive growth and more effective problem-solving abilities. Therefore,

while chatbots hold promise as tools for enhancing problem-solving, their effectiveness

largely depends on their design and the manner in which they are integrated into the learning

process.

The Need for Longitudinal Research

According to Stöhr et al. (2024), future research could explore alternative methods of

data collection, such as direct observations, tracking actual chatbot usage, or conducting

focus group discussions, to minimize biases like social desirability or inaccurate recall that

often arise

from self-reported data. Additionally, the study’s cross-sectional approach limits the ability to

examine causal relationships or track changes over time. A more effective approach would

involve longitudinal research, which could offer valuable insights into how students’

perceptions and usage of AI chatbots evolve throughout their academic journey.

AI chatbots have immense potential to enhance education by offering personalized

learning experiences, fostering engagement, and promoting problem-solving abilities.

However, their impact is contingent on their design, usage context, and how well they are

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
integrated into
ACADEMY OF educational
ST. JOSEPHsettings. While chatbots can help
SENIOR HIGH students
SCHOOL develop critical
DEPARTMENT

thinking skills and enhance academic performance, over-reliance on these tools may diminish

students’ capacity for independent learning and creative thought. Furthermore, ethical

concerns regarding academic integrity, digital inequality, and biased AI outputs need to be

addressed proactively to prevent misuse and ensure fair access to these tools.

To fully realize the benefits of AI chatbots, ongoing research is necessary, especially

studies that explore the long-term effects of chatbot use in education. Longitudinal studies

could provide valuable insights into how students’ interactions with AI evolve, allowing for a

deeper understanding of their role in shaping academic experiences. Furthermore, adopting

alternative data collection methods, such as direct observation and focus groups, could reduce

biases and enhance the accuracy of findings related to chatbot usage. The future of AI in

education lies in the balanced integration of these tools, addressing their limitations while

maximizing their potential to improve learning outcomes.

At ASJ High School in Claveria, Cagayan, AI chatbots have been introduced as tools

to support students in various academic tasks, such as providing quick access to information,

assisting with assignments, and enhancing learning experiences. While these chatbots offer

convenience and efficiency, their impact on students’ critical thinking skills remains a key

consideration. The school continues to explore ways to integrate AI chatbots effectively,

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
ensuring thatOF
ACADEMY theyST.
serve as aids to learning rather than
JOSEPH replacements
SENIOR HIGH for independent
SCHOOL thought
DEPARTMENT

and problem-solving.

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the methodology used in investigating students’ experiences

with AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT and Cici, at ASJ in Claveria, Cagayan. The study was

carefully designed to ensure ethical compliance while maintaining participant confidentiality.

This section outlines the research design, participant selection, data collection procedures,

and research instruments.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

A. Research Design

The researchers employed a descriptive qualitative design to explore how students

engage with AI chatbots in their learning experiences. This approach allowed for an in-depth

understanding of how AI influences critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent

learning. Open-ended responses were prioritized to capture students’ personal perspectives

rather than numerical data. To maintain objectivity and minimize biases, reflexive journaling

was used throughout the research process, and peer debriefing sessions were conducted to

refine interpretations.

B. Research Instrument

The research instrument consisted of a survey questionnaire with two main sections:

demographic information and open-ended questions. The demographic section gathered

essential participant details, such as anonymized names, age, sex, and grade level, to

contextualize responses while ensuring privacy.

The open-ended section focused on three key themes: critical thinking, problem-

solving, and independent learning. Questions related to critical thinking examined how AI

chatbots influenced students’ ability to analyze and evaluate information. The problem-

solving section explored students’ experiences using AI chatbots to overcome academic

challenges. The independent learning section assessed whether AI chatbots enhanced

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

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motivation and
ACADEMY OFself-
ST. directed
JOSEPH learning. These open-ended questions
SENIOR HIGHallowed
SCHOOLstudents to share
DEPARTMENT

detailed insights based on their experiences with AI tools.

C. Research Participants

Participants were selected through voluntary participation, with students invited to

join the study through classroom announcements and teacher referrals. The survey gathered

basic demographic details, including anonymized names, age, sex, and grade level, to provide

context for the responses while maintaining confidentiality. A total of 60 students were

selected, with 10 participants from each grade level (Grades 7–12) and an equal distribution

of male and female students. This approach ensured a diverse representation across different

grade levels.

D. Research Locale

The study was conducted at ASJ in Claveria, Cagayan, where AI chatbots are

integrated into students’ daily learning activities. This setting provided a relevant

environment for examining how students interact with AI in their academic work.

E. Data Collection

Data were collected through open-ended written surveys that encouraged students to

share their thoughts freely. This method allowed for detailed and honest responses, providing

deeper insights into their experiences with Ai chatbots. The survey questions were designed

to effectively capture the required information, ensuring clarity and relevance. This approach

enabled students to express their opinions without hesitation.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
F. Data Collection
ACADEMY OF ST.Procedure
JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

Formal approval will be obtained from Fr. Jerome A.Adriatico, SVD (School director)

and Mr. Remar P. Agcaoili, MaEd (School Principal0 prior to the study.

A total of 60 students from ASJ High school in Claveria Cagayan, who actively use

AI chatbots for academic tasks will be selected as participants.

Survey questionnaires will be distributed during school hours, focusing on (1)

demographic data (age, grade level, academic performance) (2) Ai chatbots’ influence on

critical thinking skills, (3) impact on problem-solving and independent learning, and (4)

students’ perceptions of benefits and drawbacks. Participants will be given ample time to

complete responses.

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
ACADEMY OF ST. JOSEPH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

THE IMPACT OF AI CHATBOTS ON ASJ STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING

AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS