Little is known about how students in speech, language, and hearing sciences perceive the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in their lives as learners and future clinicians. This study aims to capture SLHS students' perspectives on the potential pros and cons of AI through the lens of self-determination theory (SDT). SDT holds that well-being depends on the satisfaction of three psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness (social connection). Using a qualitative focus group design, students will first be introduced to SDT and discuss factors and experiences in student life that affect their sense of competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Students will then engage in guided peer discussions focused specifically on the use of AI, how it may positively and negatively impact the three SDT dimensions now and in the future. Data collection is ongoing. We anticipate that findings will reveal nuanced perspectives that can inform pedagogical and curricular strategies to help our program leverage the potential benefits of AI for student well-being while mitigating risks.
