Speaker
Description
OKE, A. A.
Federal College of Education, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria
okeaa@fceiwo.edu.ng
Track: Digital Pedagogy and Teaching Innovation
This study investigated the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on digital inclusion and learning accessibility within Colleges of Education in South West, Nigeria. Recognizing AI's potential, the research addresses the persistent digital divide and other challenges in developing educational contexts. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data from 552 undergraduate science students across government-owned Colleges in South-Western Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach also incorporated qualitative insights. Non-parametric analyses, specifically Kruskal–Wallis H and Mann–Whitney U tests, were used to examine differences in perception. Findings indicate that 19.2% of respondents extensively use AI tools. Significant challenges to AI adoption include inadequate funding (42.3%), infrastructural deficiencies (25%), and limited technical expertise (15.4%). The study revealed significant differences in AI perception based on students’ level of study and programme, with higher-level students and those in Federal Colleges reporting more positive views. No statistically significant gender differences were observed. The digital divide, coupled with sociocultural and linguistic barriers, significantly hinders AI integration. Despite these obstacles, AI offers avenues for personalized and accessible learning. The findings underscore the critical need for inclusive, localized AI solutions, targeted professional development, and infrastructure improvements to foster equitable learning environments in Nigerian Colleges of Education.