ENGAGEMENT FROM ENTERTAINMENT TO EDUCATION: AN ANALYSIS OF AI APPLICATION ADOPTION AND USAGE PATTERNS AMONG YOUTH

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has witnessed rapid growth in contemporary society, leading to widespread adoption across educational, social, and digital platforms. Young individuals increasingly use AI-enabled applications not only for educational purposes but also for content creation, entertainment, social media interaction, gaming, and virtual assistance. Such widespread exposure enhances digital familiarity and gradually blurs the boundary between educational and non-educational uses of AI. In this context, examining the adoption and usage patterns of AI applications among youth has become essential.

The present study focuses on a time series analysis of AI application adoption and usage patterns among youth, with special emphasis on AI-based learning platforms. The research is based on primary data collected through a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, access to digital technologies, frequency of AI usage, and engagement patterns, supplemented by secondary data from reliable online sources. Time series techniques are employed to analyze trends and variations in AI engagement across different periods, enabling an assessment of changes in intensity, purpose, and sustainability of usage.

The findings indicate a significant and consistent rise in AI adoption among youth, particularly within the 18–24 age group. By 2024, generative AI applications recorded approximately 177 million downloads in India, reflecting a growth of over 135 percent compared to the previous year. Young adults constituted the largest user segment across generative AI, AI companion applications, and AI-based learning platforms. The study further suggests that frequent engagement with AI in creative and entertainment domains positively influences acceptance and continued use of AI-driven educational platforms.

The study offers valuable empirical insights for educators, educational institutions, and AI developers. In the Indian context, where digitalization and AI-enabled education are expanding rapidly, the findings contribute to understanding youth behaviour and supporting informed educational and technological planning.