𝘊𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘯 𝘥𝘦 𝘖𝘳𝘰 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺 – Amid ongoing debates over the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on student learning, a faculty researcher from City College of Cagayan de Oro presented compelling findings that reinforce the enduring value of hard work and personal engagement in academic success.
Prof. Ma. Katerina F. Janubas, CAS faculty member, shared her research titled “Student Engagement and Academic Performance: The Moderating Role of Generative AI Usage among College Students” during Day 2 of the 3rd International Conference and 24th National Convention of APNIEVE Philippines, held at Liceo de Cagayan University.
The study, which surveyed 100 second-year college students, revealed that while all respondents reported high usage of generative AI tools and strong levels of academic engagement, it was still consistent student effort—not AI reliance—that strongly correlated with higher academic performance.
“AI is not a magical shortcut,” Prof. Janubas explained. “Our findings show that regardless of AI access, it is the engaged student—who attends classes, participates actively, and studies regularly—who achieves better academic results.”
Her research contributes to a growing body of literature that addresses the role of AI in education, particularly in light of widespread concerns that technology may undermine critical thinking and academic integrity. However, Prof. Janubas argued that AI should be viewed as a complementary tool, not a replacement for foundational academic values.
“Educators should not fear AI,” she emphasized. “Instead, we must focus on guiding students to use these tools ethically and strategically, while nurturing the habits of discipline, curiosity, and responsibility.”
Prof. Janubas’s presentation was met with positive responses from fellow educators and researchers, marking a significant moment for CCCDO’s participation in global academic discussions. Her study underscores the College’s commitment to forward-looking research and student-centered innovation, in line with its institutional goal of fostering resilient, ethical, and future-ready learners.
The conference, organized under the theme “GenAI and Education: Advancing Human Values Toward Sustainable Development in an Automated World,” gathered educators and practitioners of values education from across the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region.
Prof. Janubas concluded by reminding attendees: “The fundamentals haven’t changed. An engaged student will do great—with or without AI.”