AI Usage in Academic Writing Among Moroccan Doctoral Researchers at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is improving research methods in higher education worldwide, encouraging scholarly creativity and accelerating research. This article explores the use of artificial intelligence among Moroccan doctoral students in the context of PhD dissertations and article writing. It offers a new perspective not only on attitudes towards artificial intelligence but also on practices within Moroccan doctoral education. A mixed-methods approach is used to evaluate postgraduate behaviour and ethical practices related to Artificial Intelligence. Based on responses from 80 participants in a questionnaire administered to first-, second, and third-year doctoral students at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, the study collected both quantitative and qualitative data through a combination of closed-ended and open-ended questions. For quantitative analysis, SPSS version 27 was employed, including both descriptive and inferential statistics to answer the research questions. The qualitative data were analysed thematically. Ethical considerations were prioritised, including informed consent and confidentiality measures for respondents. Results show that 76.3% of PhD students utilise artificial intelligence for thesis-related activities, such as brainstorming ideas and designing outlines, with some holding neutral views and most showing moderate agreement regarding its use. The study concludes that there is an urgent need for artificial intelligence literacy training in Moroccan universities to promote responsible use, as well as for universities to establish clear guidelines for their ethics committees.