Student perceptions of artificial intelligence in higher education: a structural analysis at an Italian university

Background and aims The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming higher education, yet understanding of student perceptions remains limited. This study investigates the structure of student attitudes toward AI and identifies key predictors among Italian university students. Methods A cross-sectional survey was administered to 864 students at the University of Palermo (May-June 2025). The questionnaire examined demographics, AI experience, and attitudes using 10 Likert-type items. Data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Results Most students (65.8%) reported superficial AI knowledge, yet 93.6% had used AI applications, predominantly ChatGPT (59.8%). Factor analyses identified two distinct latent constructs: perceived Impact of AI and AI-related Concerns, negatively correlated (r = -0.34, p < 0.001). Perceived Impact was positively predicted by age (beta = 0.17), STEM (beta = 0.19), Health/Agricultural/Veterinary sciences (beta = 0.23), Economics/Law/Social Sciences (beta = 0.16), and regular AI use, while negatively predicted by female gender (beta = -0.09) and non-use (beta = -0.35). AI-related Concerns were positively predicted by female gender (beta = 0.21) and non-regular use (never: beta = 0.20; occasionally: beta = 0.29), and negatively by STEM (beta = -0.11) and Health sciences (beta = -0.15). Conclusions Student attitudes toward AI reflect two distinct dimensions: opportunity recognition and risk awareness, systematically influenced by gender, discipline, and AI experience. Successful implementation requires tailored approaches addressing gender-specific concerns, discipline-specific needs, and promoting direct AI experience.