Patterns and trends in the use of AI-driven utility tools among university researchers in the Jodhpur region

The rapid advancement of science and technology especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) is significantly influencing various fields, with education and research being among the most affected. AI-enabled digital tools now allow users to accomplish tasks with greater speed and precision than ever before. The present study explores how researchers are engaging with AI-based technologies for scholarly communication, focusing on their usability, efficiency, awareness levels, and the challenges faced in adopting these tools. To gather insights, an online survey was carried out among university professionals in the Jodhpur region. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed across six universities and colleges through email and social media using a random sampling technique, and 160 responses were received. The findings reveal that although human input remains essential, the role of AI in producing research papers is steadily expanding. About 31.87% of participants reported frequent use of AI tools for research purposes. Additionally, 25% of respondents indicated a high level of familiarity with these tools, while 57.50% were somewhat familiar. AI applications are used mostly for writing research papers and plagiarism detection, showing slightly higher adoption compared to other uses. However, limited knowledge and lack of confidence in AI technologies continue to hinder broader acceptance. Despite recognizing the advantages of AI-driven tools, many respondents still hesitate to place complete trust in them.