University of Phoenix Scholars Publish Study on Academic Applications of Generative AI

Researchers examine ethical and methodological use of AI tools in higher education

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:19pm

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A team of scholars from the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies have published new research exploring how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT are being used in academic environments. The study analyzes current literature on the academic applications of generative AI, focusing on their role in doctoral research, academic writing, literature review processes, and knowledge development.

Why it matters

As generative AI tools become more prevalent in higher education, this research aims to help educators, doctoral students, and institutions better understand how to integrate AI responsibly while preserving the rigor and critical inquiry that define scholarly work. The findings highlight the importance of ethical guidelines, academic integrity, and responsible AI use in academic settings.

The details

The study, titled "Academic Applications of Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools: A Scoping Review," was published in the peer-reviewed International Journal of Digital Society. The researchers, Patricia Akojie, Ph.D., Marlene Blake, Ph.D., and Louise Underdahl, Ph.D., used a scoping review methodology to identify emerging patterns in how AI technologies are being adopted across higher education. Key findings include: generative AI tools are increasingly used in academic workflows, AI can improve research efficiency and idea generation, ethical and academic integrity considerations remain critical, and institutions may need clearer policies and guidance to support responsible AI adoption.

  • The study was published on March 13, 2026.

The players

Patricia Akojie

Lead author of the study and a faculty member in the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies.

Marlene Blake

A scholar in the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies whose research interests include online learning, instructional innovation, and emerging technologies in higher education.

Louise Underdahl

A researcher in the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies who contributes research on educational leadership, digital scholarship, and technology-enabled learning strategies.

University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies

The college where the researchers are based, focusing on today's challenging business and organizational needs, from addressing critical social issues to developing solutions to accelerate community building and industry growth.

Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research

The research team at the University of Phoenix that studies how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are reshaping teaching, learning, and research practices in digital learning environments.

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What they’re saying

“Generative AI tools are rapidly changing how scholars approach research and academic writing. Our review synthesizes emerging evidence so educators, doctoral students, and institutions can better understand how to integrate AI responsibly while preserving the rigor and critical inquiry that define scholarly work.”

— Patricia Akojie, Lead author and faculty member in the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies (International Journal of Digital Society)

What’s next

The researchers plan to continue studying the academic applications of generative AI, with a focus on developing ethical guidelines and best practices for responsible integration of these technologies in higher education.

The takeaway

This study highlights the growing importance of understanding and responsibly integrating generative AI tools in academic settings, as universities and scholars adapt to new digital technologies and workforce expectations. The findings emphasize the need for clear policies, ethical frameworks, and AI literacy training to preserve the integrity of scholarly work while leveraging the potential benefits of these emerging tools.