2026 ALISE Annual Conference

This study, guided by Self-Determination Theory, examines what psychological conditions motivate graduate students to use generative AI (GenAI) tools in academic work. A survey of 78 graduate students measured psychological need satisfaction and motivated engagement with GenAI. Hierarchical regression results show that autonomy and competence satisfaction strongly predict engagement, while competence frustration negatively predicts it. By shifting attention from technology-centered adoption models to students’ psychological motivations, the study offers insights for designing AI-integrated curricula, training initiatives, and assessment strategies that support responsible and meaningful AI use in graduate education.