ChatGPT and employability in higher education: exploring creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3846/cs.2026.23543Abstract
Generative AI tools are reshaping higher education and employability preparation. This study examines how using versus not using ChatGPT influences university students’ perceptions of employability, focusing on complex problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. Thirty students from the Complutense University of Madrid completed a contingency-plan task and participated in eight focus groups analyzed through Grounded Theory (ATLAS.ti). Results show that ChatGPT use is associated with efficiency, output refinement, and assisted creativity, while non-use is associated with originality, deliberation, and teamwork. The findings reveal preliminary patterns in students’ experiences with and without AI, warranting further quantitative investigation rather than claims of improved skills or employability.
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artificial intelligence, employability, soft skills, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativityHow to Cite
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Copyright (c) 2026 The Author(s). Published by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.