Human–AI co-learning in the social media era: Exploring university students' experiences of learning with Generative AI and social media
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71085/rjhsa.04.03.127Keywords:
Human–AI Co-learning, Generative Artificial Intelligence, Social Media Learning, Digital Learning Competencies, Higher EducationAbstract
The widespread adoption of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and educational content on social media has transformed how university students access information, collaborate with peers, and construct knowledge across diverse educational contexts. This study explores university students' experiences of integrating GenAI tools and social media into their everyday learning practices across Pakistan, Malaysia, and Singapore, offering a cross-national qualitative perspective on Human–AI co-learning in higher education. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 university students, comprising six participants from each country and representing diverse academic disciplines who regularly used GenAI applications alongside social media for educational purposes. The interview data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and contextual similarities and differences. The findings revealed six major themes: the evolution of Human–AI co-learning, social media as a knowledge community, personalized and self-directed learning, critical thinking versus AI dependency, cross-cultural digital learning practices, and responsible AI with digital competence. While participants across all three countries viewed GenAI and social media as complementary learning resources, differences emerged in institutional support, digital literacy, and technology adoption practices. Based on these findings, the study proposes a cross-national Human–AI co-learning framework and an actionable institutional roadmap to support responsible, inclusive, and sustainable AI-enhanced learning in higher education.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Lewes Lim, Dr. Habib Ahmed Khan, Dr. Muhammad Usman Zia, Saad Siddique Khan, Dr. Kashif Abrar (Author)
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