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. 14, 2026 at 12:07am

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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 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. Key findings include: Generative AI tools are increasingly used in academic workflows, including literature review support, research brainstorming, and academic writing assistance; AI can improve research efficiency and idea generation, particularly for complex scholarly tasks; ethical and academic integrity considerations remain critical, including transparency about AI use and maintaining original scholarly analysis; and doctoral education may benefit from AI literacy training to help researchers understand both the capabilities and limitations of generative AI technologies.

  • The study was published on March 13, 2026.

The players

Patricia Akojie, Ph.D.

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

Marlene Blake, Ph.D.

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

Louise Underdahl, Ph.D.

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

University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies

The college that focuses 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 (CEITR)

A research group at the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies 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, Ph.D., Lead author and faculty member in the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies (University of Phoenix)

The takeaway

This research highlights the growing importance of understanding how generative AI tools can be used responsibly and ethically in higher education, as universities adapt to new digital tools and workforce expectations. The findings suggest the need for clearer policies, AI literacy training, and a focus on preserving academic integrity as these technologies become more prevalent in scholarly workflows.