INVESTIGATING STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS, ATTITUDES AND EXPERIENCES WITH CHATGPT AS A REFERENCE SERVICE TOOL IN ACADEMIC LIBRARY IN OFFA LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ABSTRACT This paper explored the perception, attitudes, and experience of students using ChatGPT as a reference service in the selected polytechnics in Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria. The descriptive survey design was used, and the study population was constituted of 569 students of School of Engineering Technology at Federal Polytechnic Offa and Lens Polytechnic Offa. A sample size of 85 was calculated using the Taro Yamane formula, of which 80 of the questionnaires were retrieved successfully and they had been filled in which signifies a response rate of 94%. The data were measured using a structured questionnaire that was validated by the experts and tested on reliability using a pilot study, which gave a Cronbachs Alpha coefficient of 0.80. Data analysis was done by descriptive statistical tools such as frequency counts and simple percentages. The results showed that most students were aware of and used ChatGPT with the majority stating that they had used this tool before. ChatGPT was often utilized by students to complete academic assignments, conduct research, and get help with citation and was more commonly used than traditional library reference services. The findings also indicated that students felt that ChatGPT was quick, convenient, available, and very interactive than the library reference desk. Nonetheless, the respondents have also identified the traditional library as a more trusted provider of credible and verifiable data. The general attitude toward ChatGPT was quite positive, and the majority of students regarded it as the powerful tool of academic success, independent learning, and support of research works. However, the identified challenges were the fear of inaccuracy, risks of plagiarism, issues with differentiating between AI-generated and academic information, a problem with appropriate reference, and the problem associated with the internet connection and the possibilities to access subscriptions. Generally, the research would discern that, though ChatGPT is certainly an effective academic support experience in the case of students, it is best used complementary to the traditional reference experience offered in libraries. According to the findings, the responsible use of AI tools in libraries and institutions is necessary, and users should be educated and digitally literate to have the most effective learning experience using ChatGPT. Keyword: ChatGPT, Polytechnic, Perceptions, Attitudes, Experience, References and Reference Services.