Modern Social Science Research

Diffusion theory offers a valuable perspective on the development trajectory of new technologies. An application diffusion integration evaluation index system was constructed based on college students' mastery, learning application, and innovative practice of artificial intelligence technology. The Entropy Weight-Topsis method was employed to assess the current level of AI usage among college students, while t-tests and ANOVA were used to compare differences in usage levels across various demographic variables. The findings reveal: (1) The overall level of application diffusion integration is moderately high; (2) Compared to technical mastery and learning/application, innovative practice exerts a more significant influence on the degree of application diffusion integration; (3) No significant differences in application diffusion integration are observed across gender, grade level, or major. Based on these results, recommendations are proposed to promote the application diffusion integration of AI technology among university students, focusing on strengthening AI innovation practice and enhancing deep processing capabilities.

College students; Artificial intelligence; Application diffusion and integration; Diffusion theory