University of Phoenix Scholars Publish Study on Academic Applications of Generative AI in Higher Education

Researchers examine ethical and methodological use of AI tools in doctoral research, writing, and knowledge development

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:39pm

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University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies scholars have published new research exploring how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT are being used in academic environments. The study analyzes current scholarly literature on the academic applications of generative AI, focusing on their role in doctoral research, academic writing, literature review processes, and knowledge development. The researchers identify emerging patterns in how AI technologies are being adopted across higher education, while also highlighting the importance of ethical guidelines, academic integrity, and responsible AI use.

Why it matters

As generative AI tools become more prevalent in academic workflows, this research provides important insights into how universities can leverage these technologies responsibly while preserving the rigor and critical inquiry that define scholarly work. The findings have implications for doctoral education, academic writing practices, and institutional policies around AI adoption.

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. Using a scoping review methodology, the researchers from the University of Phoenix's Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research identified key trends in how generative AI is being used, including for literature review support, research brainstorming, and academic writing assistance. The study also highlights the need for ethical guidelines, academic integrity considerations, and AI literacy training for doctoral students.

  • 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 College of Doctoral Studies whose research interests include online learning, instructional innovation, and emerging technologies in higher education.

Louise Underdahl

A researcher who contributes to studies on educational leadership, digital scholarship, and technology-enabled learning strategies.

University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies

The academic unit that conducted the research on the academic applications of generative AI tools.

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, University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies (International Journal of Digital Society)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This study highlights the growing importance of understanding and managing the academic applications of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, as universities seek to leverage these technologies while maintaining the integrity and rigor of scholarly work.