Language Education and Artificial Intelligence: An Exploration of Challenges Confronting Academics in Global South Universities

Abstract

While the global South universities have made significant strides in adopting digital technologies, there remain huge gaps, particularly when it comes to the acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI) in institutions of higher learning. As such, this study sought to explore global South academics’ reported AI-related challenges in the language education domain from published literature. To achieve this, the researchers employed a literature review methodology which entailed meticulous searches for published literature using key words. The challenges reported in literature revealed four broad challenges namely limited language options, academic dishonesty, biases and lack of accountability, and laziness among students and lecturers. Based on these findings, the study recommended that there be an urgent prioritisation of the development of AI-based language education tools that are specifically tailored to the needs and contexts of learners in the global South. The study also recommended the development of accessible and affordable AI-based language education tools, that will promote the development of digital literacy skills among educators and learners in the global South.

Postgraduate Students’ Perceptions on the Benefits Associated with Artificial Intelligence Tools on Academic Success: In Case of ChatGPT AI tool

“…However, the integration of ChatGPT in research processes may deprive students of valuable opportunities to engage with their peers, potentially hindering the enhancement of their social skills (Loos et al, 2023). An additional challenge associated with the utilisation of ChatGPT in research is the potential for postgraduate students to overly rely on this AI tool, leading to difficulties in conducting research without its assistance (A. El-Seoud et al, 2023;Makeleni et al, 2023). Wen and Wang (2023) emphasise the importance of acknowledging and dealing with potential challenges raised by ChatGPT in research.…”

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation in the World of Work: A Threat to Employees?

“…AI is described as computer systems that duplicate or mimic intelligent human actions, but in various ways (Bhave et al, 2020). Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently regained attention as a technology that not only improves learning processes but also has the ability to transform learning cultures and relationships (Baena-Rojas et al, 2023;Gadanidis, 2017;Makeleni et al, 2023). The cultural component is derived from the link between the concept of knowledge and the use of technology.…”

Artificial intelligence tools and higher education student’s engagement

“…These challenges and concern include Issues such as data privacy, ethical use of AI algorithms, the potential exacerbation of the digital divide the risk of deconstructing the teacher-student role structure and educational inequality, biased algorithms, the risk of alienation from educational goals, the tendency for intense use of AI to impair student's ability to learn independently and develop 21th century skills such as problem solving and critical thinking, lack of technical infrastructure and technological knowledge of teachers. (Bu 2022, Chiu & Chai, 2020Eteng-Uket & Effiom 2023;Makeleni et al 2023;McCarthy et al, 2016;Wogu et al 2018), Understanding these challenges is essential to harnessing the benefits of AI and ensuring the responsible integration of AI tools while mitigating potential drawbacks.…”