AI Adoption Among Kinesiology Students: A Technology Acceptance Model Pilot Study

Generative AI tools have raised questions about how students in applied disciplines perceive and adopt these technologies. This pilot study examined undergraduate kinesiology students’ (N = 210) perceptions and use of AI tools using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Results confirmed TAM’s core propositions: perceived usefulness predicted positive attitudes, which predicted actual use. However, the model explained only 28% of behavioral variance, revealing a substantial intention-behavior gap. Despite favorable perceptions, actual AI engagement remained modest. Notably, institutional awareness did not predict use, yet nearly half of students desired clearer policies, an awareness paradox suggesting current guidance is too vague to shape behavior. Students primarily used ChatGPT for writing tasks and preferred instructor guidance and course-integrated training over standalone workshops. Findings indicate that positive attitudes alone do not drive AI adoption and that factors beyond traditional TAM constructs influence behavior in this population. Kinesiology educators should integrate AI literacy within courses while ensuring students develop foundational competencies that AI cannot replace.