The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the adoption and impact of AI ChatGPT: Challenges, applications, and ethical considerations

Talib Hussain; Dake Wang; Benqian Li

doi:10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104264

The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the adoption and impact of AI ChatGPT: Challenges, applications, and ethical considerations

Acta Psychol (Amst). 2024 Apr 15:246:104264. doi: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104264. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Talib Hussain¹, Dake Wang², Benqian Li³

Affiliations

¹ School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, 2002240 Shanghai, China; Department of Media Management, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom 37491-13357, Iran. Electronic address: talibhussian@sjtu.edu.cn.
² School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, 2002240 Shanghai, China. Electronic address: dakewang@sjtu.edu.cn.
³ School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, 2002240 Shanghai, China. Electronic address: libenqian@sjtu.edu.cn.

PMID: 38626597
DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104264

Abstract

Design/methodology/approach: This article employs qualitative thematic modeling to gather insights from 30 informants. The study explores various aspects related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AI ChatGPT technologies.

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the increased usage and adoption of AI ChatGPT. It aims to explore the pandemic's impact on AI ChatGPT and its applications in specific domains, as well as the challenges and opportunities it presents.

Findings: The findings highlight that the pandemic has led to a surge in online activities, resulting in a heightened demand for AI ChatGPT. It has been widely used in areas such as healthcare, mental health support, remote collaboration, and personalized customer experiences. The article showcases examples of AI ChatGPT's application during the pandemic.

Strength of study: This qualitative framework enables the study to delve deeply into the multifaceted dimensions of AI ChatGPT's role during the pandemic, capturing the diverse experiences and insights of users, practitioners, and experts. By embracing the qualitative nature of inquiry and this research offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations associated with the adoption and utilization of AI ChatGPT in crisis contexts.

Practical implications: The insights from this research have practical implications for policymakers, developers, and researchers. This reserach emphasize the need for responsible and ethical implementation of AI ChatGPT to fully harness its potential in addressing societal needs during and beyond the pandemic.

Social implications: The increased reliance on AI ChatGPT during the pandemic has led to changes in user behavior, expectations, and interactions. However, it has also unveiled ethical considerations and potential risks. Addressing societal and ethical concerns, such as user impact and autonomy, privacy and security, bias and fairness, and transparency and accountability, is crucial for the responsible deployment of AI ChatGPT.

Originality/value: This research contributes to the understanding of the novel role of AI ChatGPT in times of crisis, particularly in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the necessity of responsible and ethical implementation of AI ChatGPT and provides valuable insights for the development and application of AI technology in the future.

Keywords: AI; COVID 19; ChatGPT; Qualitative modeling.