Abstract Book of the 9th International Conference on Research in Education, Teaching and Learning
Year: 2025
DOI:
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Transforming Educational Perceptions: AI as an Asset, Not A Threat
Nawal Ali. Alzahrani, Dr. Danya Alshaalan, Dr. Taghreed Alsudais
ABSTRACT:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming central in the educational system, particularly in English as a Foreign Language (EFL)context, where opportunities for immersive practices are limited. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated AI adoption, transforming teaching and learning through digital tools. The integration of AI into education continues to spark debate. Traditional perspectives often see it as detracting from the effort essential for developing language proficiency, posing challenges to its acceptance and implementation. However, current educational approaches emphasize AI’s value for enhancing self-regulated and self-directed learning. This study investigates the perspectives of female students and teachers at an English Language Institute in central Saudi Arabia, exploring sociocultural and institutional factors influencing their views on AI. Guided by Activity Theory, this research examined misconceptions and realities of AI utilization through pre- and post-focus group interviews, individual interviews, and surveys. Qualitative data were analyzed using NVivo, while JMP was used for survey statistics. Findings revealed that teachers valued AI for enhancing learning but noted concerns such as over-reliance and limited training. Students initially viewed AI skeptically but later acknowledged its benefits for skill improvement and self-regulation. The study highlights the need for training, ethical guidelines, and equitable access to optimize AI integration in learning and teaching.
keywords: Self-regulated Learning, English as a Foreign Language (EFL), Activity Theory, Misconceptions, Realities