AI in Work-Based Learning: Understanding the Purposes and Effects of Intelligent Tools Among Student Interns

TL;DR

This study explores how student interns in the Philippines use AI tools during internships, highlighting their purposes, perceptions, and the need for AI literacy and policies in higher education.

Contribution

It provides empirical insights into AI tool usage among interns, identifying main purposes and emphasizing the importance of AI literacy and ethical guidelines in education.

Findings

ChatGPT is the most used AI tool among interns.

Students use AI mainly for productivity, communication, and technical support.

AI tools help improve work-readiness and require responsible use policies.

Abstract

This study examined how student interns in Philippine higher education use intelligent tools during their OJT. Data were collected from 384 respondents using a structured questionnaire that asked about AI tool usage, task-specific applications, and perceptions of confidence, ethics, and support. Analysis of task-based usage identified four main purposes: productivity and report writing, communication and content drafting, technical assistance and code support, and independent task completion. ChatGPT was the most commonly used AI tool, followed by Quillbot, Canva AI, and Grammarly. Students reported moderate confidence in using AI and applied these tools selectively and ethically during OJT tasks. This indicate that AI tools assist student interns in various OJT activities related to work-readiness. The study suggests that higher education programs include AI literacy and onboarding. Clear policies and fair access to AI tools are important to support responsible use and prepare students for future careers.