Our paper titled „Inspired by generative AI, Ignoring Open Knowledge? Findings from a Longitudinal Study on Digital Equipment and Activities of Study Beginners at TU Graz (2011–2024)“ at this year’s ED-Media conference in Barcelona got published.
Abstract:
Over the past 13 years, nearly 13,000 students participated in annual surveys during the “Welcome Days” for first-year students at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) in Austria. This paper presents an analysis of data from 2011 to 2024, offering insights into the evolving digital landscape of incoming students. It explores trends in IT equipment, social media use, communication tools, digital leisure, and engagement with online resources. A key finding is the rising adoption of AI tools, with ChatGPT usage nearly doubling compared to the previous year. At the same time, the use of Wikipedia and open-source software has declined, suggesting shifts in information-seeking and digital work habits. Smartphones and digital communication tools remain essential, though preferences are changing—for example, Discord is gaining popularity while SMS continues to decline. Streaming services are still dominant for digital leisure, yet platforms such as Netflix and Prime are no longer surveyed separately, reflecting broader changes in media use. This longitudinal study provides valuable insights into how students’ digital habits evolve, informing digital learning strategies, educational technologies, and student support services. By understanding these trends, universities can better tailor e-learning environments and digital literacy initiatives to support new student cohorts effectively.
[draft @ researchgate]
[full paper @ conference website]
Reference: Nagler, W., Mair, B., Ebner, M. & Schön, S. (2025). Inspired by generative AI, Ignoring Open Knowledge? Findings from a Longitudinal Study on Digital Equipment and Activities of Study Beginners at TU Graz (2011–2024). In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 1161-1169). Barcelona, Spain: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved May 26, 2025 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/226272/.
