A review of emerging AI technologies in education: challenges and benefits in South Africa

Abstract

Emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are transforming the global education sector, with Artificial Intelligence playing a crucial role in enhancing teaching, learning, and administrative processes. In South Africa, AI-driven innovations have the potential to bridge educational gaps, improve student engagement, and personalize learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms, automated grading systems, and intelligent tutoring applications are revolutionizing education by making it more efficient and accessible. However, despite these advancements, the adoption of AI in South African education faces significant challenges. Key challenges include data privacy concerns, ethical considerations, and a shortage of AI-skilled educators. These challenges create an uneven distribution of AI’s benefits, limiting its potential to improve learning outcomes on a national scale. Highlighting the need to explore the opportunities and barriers associated with the adoption of emerging AI technologies in South African education. Therefore, this study adopts a comprehensive literature review aiming to explore emerging AI technologies in the educational context in south Africa. To achieve this, the research will address the following questions: What impact have new technologies had on South Africa’s development? and in what ways can emerging technologies supporting South Africa's development initiatives. The findings indicate that AI tools have shown success in improving learning outcomes, increasing student engagement, and streamlining administrative tasks in well-resourced schools. However, their impact is uneven due to infrastructural and systemic challenges; also, the widespread adoption is hindered by a persistent digital divide, limited internet access, and a shortage of AI-trained educators, especially in rural areas. Additionally, ethical concerns such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the absence of clear regulatory frameworks pose significant barriers.

Keywords: {'name': 'Artificial intelligence'}, {'name': 'education'}, {'name': 'Emerging Technologies'}, {'name': 'south africa'}, {'name': 'Digital Transformation'}, {'name': 'AI ethics'}

Authors & affiliations

Samkelisiwe Phokoye
Durban University of Technology

Ayogeboh Epizitone
Durban University of Technology

Smangele Moyane
Durban University of Technology

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