Ethics of Using Artificial Intelligence Applications in Education and Scientific Research: Lebanese Higher Education Institutions as a Model

Abstract

This study aims to explore the level of awareness regarding the ethical principles associated with the use of artificial intelligence among graduate students in Lebanese higher education institutions, as well as to examine university professors' perceptions of the ethical challenges accompanying these technologies. To achieve this objective, a descriptive-analytical approach was employed, collecting data through a questionnaire administered to a sample of 100 students from various public and private universities, along with semi-structured interviews with a group of professors from diverse disciplines. The results revealed that students’ awareness of ethical principles—particularly related to justice, privacy, academic integrity, and scientific originality—was lower than the expected level. No significant effects were found regarding gender, age, or type of university on awareness levels, whereas academic specialization showed a statistically significant influence. Additionally, the findings indicated a weak relationship between students’ knowledge of institutional policies and their ethical awareness, suggesting the need for practical training and educational approaches that go beyond theoretical knowledge transfer