The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Research Productivity in Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania

This dataset comprises data collected on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies in enhancing research productivity among academic staff in higher learning institutions in Tanzania. Data were gathered from three institutions: Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), the University of Dodoma (UDOM), and Mbeya University of Science and Technology (MUST), using a structured questionnaire administered to 253 academic staff respondents. The dataset captures respondents' awareness and usage patterns of AI tools, perceived effects of AI on research productivity, challenges in AI adoption, and institutional support for integrating AI into research practice. Data collection took place between 15 December 2024 and 15 March 2025 as part of a study examining how AI is being used to enhance research productivity in Tanzanian higher education institutions. This dataset may be of interest to researchers, policymakers, and institutions studying digital transformation in academia, AI adoption in research practice, and higher education development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Keywords: artificial intelligence; research productivity; higher education; Tanzania; academic staff; AI adoption