Abstract Book of the 9th International Conference on Research in Education
Year: 2025
DOI:
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The Role of Artificial Intelligence in an Open and Distance Learning Context
Choneratt SuriyarangsunPimprapa Phanphai
ABSTRACT:
Currently, Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in the ASEAN region plays a vital role in meeting the demand for flexible learning. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been leveraged to personalize content, assessment methods, and learning pathways based on individual needs (Ahmad & Phan, 2020; Gupta & Lee, 2021). In Thailand, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU), the country’s only open university, employs AI to enhance educational quality and educational equity. Being a part of an academic collaboration among open universities in ASEAN countries, the study aims to examine stakeholder opinions on AI acceptance and perception, focusing on similarities and differences in cultural contexts and diverse learner backgrounds substantially in Thailand. Furthermore, it seeks to design and develop effective AI-powered platforms with robust technical capabilities for ODeL. The study surveyed 453 current and recently graduated students from STOU. The findings revealed that students generally have a high level of awareness and acceptance of AI tools. Additionally, interviews with 10 personnel and students provided insights into user-centric AI development for distance education. Key recommendations include designing AI systems that adapt content to learners, analyzing data to improve teaching, and supporting real-time learning through tools like chatbots and simulations with careful consideration of safety, privacy, and ethical standards.
keywords: artificial intelligence tools, ai acceptance and perception, open and distance e-learning (odel), asean open universities, distance education