The Future of Education

This study investigated ChatGPT’s impact on learning efficiency, academic performance, and self-concept among 563 undergraduates from Chinese Traditional (10.8%), Wenzhou Kean (63.9%), and Kean Universities (25.2%). Using a descriptive-correlational design with convenience/snowball sampling, online survey data were analyzed. Results reported a strong positive correlation between learning efficiency and academic performance, with ChatGPT’s real-time feedback enhancing engagement, and critical thinking. Personalized tutoring’s adaptive pacing reduced anxiety and increased self-efficacy. A weak correlation linked learning efficiency and academic self-concept, yet moderate connections emerged: language practice (e.g., translation, simulations) correlated with school-focused self-concept. Students using ChatGPT for language skills displayed higher confidence in environments valuing effort and innate ability. Academic performance and self-concept were moderately correlated. ChatGPT heightened motivation and participation, indirectly strengthened self-perception. Motivated students engaged more deeply in parent-facilitated cultural activities (e.g., museum visits), reinforcing perceived competence. ChatGPT’s self-monitoring tools improved performance and self-efficacy, prompting educators to emphasize effort- and talent-focused feedback. This created a reinforcing cycle where academic gains resulted to educator recognition, further strengthening self-concept. In effort-focused environments, students using ChatGPT grew confident in their ability to progress through persistence, linking tool usage, academic success, and self-perception. The study recommends integrating ChatGPT for real-time feedback and adaptive tutoring in language learning/critical thinking. Schools should adopt effort-based grading and train students in self-assessment tools (e.g., progress tracking) to foster self-efficacy. Institutions balancing diligence and talent recognition can amplify ChatGPT’s role in holistic academic development, emphasizing  feedback and parental collaboration to align tool utility with pedagogical and psychological growth.