Kuznetsov I.S., Popova E.S. (2026). Trust in People vs. Trust in Artificial Intelligence among Higher Education Students. Universe of Russia, 35(4), 59-73. https: ...

Текст статьи на сайте журнала URL: https://mirros.hse.ru/article/view/42601 (дата обращения 20.09.2026)

Abstract

This article analyzes students’ trust in artificial intelligence (AI)-based electronic assistants in higher education. The study is based on an online sociological survey of students using a non-probability stream sample covering nine federal districts of Russia (N=9,425). The article examines the prevalence of AI use for educational purposes and the specific features of students’ trust in the information they receive. It shows that most students already have experience interacting with AI, but the dominant strategy of use remains cautious trust combined with verification of the information obtained. The article raises the question of what lies behind this position. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between trust in university teachers and trust in AI. Regression analysis demonstrates a correlation between these forms of trust while controlling for socio-demographic and institutional parameters. The article shows how different types of trust are associated with students’ self-assessed academic performance, field of study, disappointment with their current education, confidence in their choice of profession, and educational and career plans. It discusses the extent to which trust in AI may serve as an indicator of transformations in the content and forms of learning, as well as a possible factor either strengthening or undermining established educational practices. The types of trust identified can give an understanding of the social experience of contemporary education. The conclusion raises questions about the long-term risks and effects associated with the growing role of AI in learning.