Artificial Intelligence Awareness, Knowledge, and Application Among Students in Nigeria, Study Guides, Projects, Research of Artificial Intelligence

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THE LEVEL OF AWARENESS , KNOWLEDGE AND APPLICATION OF AI AMONG

STUDENTS

CHAPTER TWO

2.0. INTRODUCTION

For several years now, the world has been experiencing a transformation and a change in its operations. Technology has now being dominating the modern living of humans, information to all spheres of life are of the ample folds, close to the reach of anyone or nation that is aligned to the era of globalization where satellite and internet hold sway in global information dissemination of knowledge. Computers have been employed within different since technology dawned on human existence. They were extensively use for instructional and diagnostic roles within a variety of subject areas. Computers played significant roles like serving as educational resources or as a means for maintaining data bases of student information. The improvement in computer technology in recent years has the wave of Artificial Intelligence (AI) (Xu Wei & Zhang, 2021). Artificial intelligence (AI) is an emerging technology, described as the capacity of a machine, such as a computer, to execute activities that would typically require human intelligence (Rahul & Ebin, 2022). Artificial intelligence (AI) is developing and its application is spreading at an alarming rate, and AI has become part of our daily lives. As a matter of fact, AI has changed the way people learn (Tahiru, 2021). The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology have brought about revolutionary shifts in a variety of industries (Aiyedun, 2024). Technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), with their risks mitigated, have potential for accelerating sustainable development and empowerment of young Africans (UNESCO, 2021). According to the International Finance Corporation, AI is an integral part of the solutions for eradicating poverty and increasing shared prosperity as it lowers the cost of and barriers to providing private sector solutions, has greater reach than traditional solutions, and drives investment opportunities in emerging markets (Ogunleye, 2021).

potential of digital technologies for innovative, inclusive and sustainable growth, the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020- 2030) notes that the advances in these technologies offer Africa a “leapfrogging opportunity” by adopting digitized solutions faster and without being encumbered by “legacy challenges” of phasing out or transitioning from older technologies to new ones. Improvement in user experience and efficiency, Reduction of errors, increase in speed and the ability to do risky tasks that cannot be done by humans, etc, makes Artificial Intelligence makes more relevant. Globally, some of the sectors where Artificial Intelligence systems have been deployed include Business Administration, Automobile industry, Financial Institutions, Space exploration industry, Real Estate, Weapons and Defense Industries, Agriculture, etc. 2.1. UNDERSTANDING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE The definition of Artificial Intelligence (AI) was first proposed by John McCarthy in a Dartmouth seminar in 1956 (Xu Wei & Zhang, 2021). At that time, it was defined as: artificial intelligence is a robot with the ability to simulate learning characteristics or intelligent characteristics that can be accurately described. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the combination of technologies that enable machines capable of imitating certain functionalities of human intelligence, including such features as perception, learning, reasoning, problem solving, language interaction, and even producing creative work (COMEST 2019). Artificial Intelligence is “the science and engineering of making intelligent machines” or “a machine that behaves in a way that could be considered intelligent if it was a human being.” (Mccarthy, 2007). The development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems and technologies is categorized as the 4th Industrial Revolution. It refer to all machine-based systems that can perform using a given set of human- defined objectives to make predictions, recommendations, or decisions influencing real

or virtual environments (Ogunleye, 2021). Xu Wei & Zhang (2021) asserted that AI has become a foundational force in reshaping industries, economies, and societal landscapes on a global scale. They perform super intelligent tasks like automated decision making, diagnosis, predicting and forecasting, and pattern recognition. With much development Aiyedun (2024) points out the possibility of AI making a transformation that extends beyond mere automation, incorporating advanced capabilities such as machine learning and natural language processing, contributing to the evolution of smarter and more adaptive systems. AI is broadly categorized into two domains: the weak or domain-specific, which focuses on specific problems; and the strong or general with the ability to perform general intelligent actions (Tahiru, 2021). Applications such as Google duplex (chat agent that can carry out specific verbal tasks, such as making a reservation or appointment, over the phone) and FaceApp, which uses AI to identify persons that are tagged in other photos in Facebook are some AI applications and services (Rahul & Ebin, 2022). Other intelligent appliances such as autonomous vacuum cleaners are examples of AI applications (Adu, 2019). Some other examples of AI applications in Nigeria are found mostly in the use of AI powered customer care systems by institutions cutting across various sectors: Ziva, an AI powered chatbot utilized by Zenith Bank,[ Timi by Lawpavilion - an AI tool for lawyers, Zigi by MTN - a customer care digital assistant, Lara.ng - an AI powered chatbot that offers individuals conversation-style directions and transport fare estimate while using public transport in Lagos, etc (Rahul & Ebin, 2022). 2.2. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LANDSCAPE IN NIGERIA AI has not been massively invested in or deployed in Nigeria however On November 13th, 2020, the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami,

features to improve user experience on the application (Xu Wei & Zhang, 2021). As noted by Intel, these features rely on AI and Deep Learning inference to facilitate enhanced user experience during virtual calls. Ogunleye (2021) highlighted that AI solution services are now provided by companies like AirSmat, which provides AI-enabled software to businesses for drone data management; Kudi AI, which provides an AI enabled chatbot to assist in the transfer of remittances to family and friends in Nigeria; Data Science Nigeria, a foundation working to deliver research which can be transformed to business use applications. It conducts AI and ML bootcamps and competitions; and Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria, which provides training in AI, ML and robotics development and automation. 2.3. THE AWARENESS, KNOWLEDGE AND APPLICATION OF AI FOR LEARNING IN NIGERIA. AI has found its way into the Nigeria technology space (Obi, Ole & Uzoigwe, 2024). For instance, the arrival of ChatGPT triggered large awareness in the Nigerian ecosystem (Aiyedun, 2024). AI came with revolution for all human endeavors. Therefore, Tahiru (2021) points that the integration of AI holds significant promise among young Nigerians. Young Nigerians can leverage on AI systems in their learning endeavors. Many scholars have agreed that the emergence of artificial intelligence exhibit infinite possibilities to the learning process of young people, such as virtual and real interaction, online education, intelligence assessment and so on (Xu Wei & Zhang, 2021). However, Tahiru (2021) points out that the awareness level of AI in Africa lags behind in comparison to other continent. The significant developments in AI have been relative.

Ogunleye (2021) pointed out the following as the challenges that prevent the effective adoption and deployment of AI in Nigeria. The Lack of a Data Ecosystem: Data collection and digital storage in Nigeria remains poor despite the explosion of tech startups in the country. Cloud computing uptake for instance remains low due to cost barriers, security, and other infrastructure concerns. Galaxy Backbone is the only provider of cloud services to the government which meet localization requirements. Cloud computing remains hampered by poor internet service provision, unreliable power supply and the absence of a regulatory framework. Low Broadband Penetration Ogunleye asserted that Nigeria is one of the largest telecommunications markets in Africa with high mobile phone penetration. Almost 90% of the population now has coverage for voice services and a majority of mobile phone subscribers are also connected to internet services. The majority of internet services are however provided on 2G and 3G networks and 4G coverage available to less than 40% of the population. Low Literacy Rates Primary education enrolment is relatively high in Nigeria with a gross enrolment ratio of 87% in

2018. This ratio falls rapidly by the time children reach secondary school age with a gross enrolment rate of 43% for secondary education and 10% for tertiary education. The average age of students dropping out is nine years for men and eight years for women. The literacy rate in Nigeria has improved over the decades with 62% of the population over the age of 15 now able to read and write. However, this rate varies widely between regions and only about 52% of

style, so that each student can learn in the most suitable way, accurately record the learning status of each student, assist teachers to achieve hierarchical teaching and precise teaching, and effectively solve the core problems of teaching and learning (Xu Wei & Zhang, 2021). There is a positive correlation between AI utilization and heightened student engagement as well as the pivotal role of technology in fostering active participation and interest among learners (Aiyedun, 2024). The application of AI as asserted by (Tahiru, 2021) has proven to be a viable method for creating a meaningful learning experience for students. AI serves as a catalyst for improved learning outcomes and a deeper understanding of academic concepts. 2.4. THEORITICAL FRAMEWORK The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) is one of the most integrated and developed technology acceptance theories that adopted the most advantageous constructs from other older theories and models (Xu Wei & Zhang, 2021). Technology acceptance theories and models had been constructed as a framework to study the method of understanding and accepting new technologies by users, how they could use it, and what could be the effect on continuing using it (Momani, 2020). For instance Social Media is one of New Media Technology, these theories and models were adopted since the beginning of the 20th century to help researchers study the acceptability and usage of such new technology. Scholars assume that factors such as usefulness, ease of use, complexity, and social influence can affect the users’ decision against any technology and the method of its usage (Tahiru, 2021). The UTAUT model is one of the most powerful technology acceptance theories which were developed to examine the ability of users to accept technology and their intention to adopt new technologies (Momani, 2020). This theory has been developed by adopting the most important

characteristics of eight old theories over the past years so as to be as a unified. The UTAUT model emerged from the review eight theories by Ven atesh and his research group in 2003 (Momani, 2020). They reviewed: Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the combination form of TAM and TPB (C-TAM-TPB), Model of PC Utilization (MPCU), Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT),Motivational Model (MM), and the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Technology acceptance theories and models have discussed the individuals’ behaviors and their acceptance ability to adopt new technologies according to some constructs and variables. These theories have been focused on the psychological and behavioral viewpoints of the users of technology. According to Qingfei, Shaobo, and Gang (2008), there are two major issues related to acceptance theories; first, each theory uses different terminologies in their constructs, but they are essentially within the same concepts. Second, according to the complexity of behavior research and the limitation of the researchers, there is no single theory that covers all behavioral factors. In other words, each theory has its own limitations and does not complement each other. UTAUT model was designed to have three direct effects from three determinants on the behavioral intention, which are: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence. In addition to the effect of two direct determinants on usage behavior: the intention of use and facilitating conditions. Curtis et al. (2010) utilized the UTAUT model to examine the adoption of Social Media. They indicated that the tools of Social Media are becoming beneficial methods to communicate among public relations practitioners in the non-profit sector. Alshehri, Drew, and Alghamdi (2012) utilized the UTAUT model in order to investigate the acceptance of e- government services within Saudi citizens.

training bootcamps for students and young researchers to the establishment of private sector and government driven innovation hubs across the continent. Even as there is an enormous potential for AI development, there are also legacy challenges in terms of infrastructure availability as well as human and institutional capacity gaps to develop and govern AI to optimise benefits and minimise harms (UNESCO, 2021). This points out that much greater commitment is being given to the Future and Development of AI. Tahiru (2021) also examine how AI could changed the way people learn under a study titled “AI in Education: A Systematic Literature Review”. He asserted that Artificial intelligence (AI) is developing and its application is spreading at an alarming rate, and AI has become part of our daily lives nevertheless its adoption in the educational sector has been saddled with challenges and ethical issues. Therefore, the study analyzed the opportunities, benefits, and challenges of AI in education. The findings of the study showed that AI’s adoption in education has advanced in the developed countries and most research became popular within the Industry 4.0 era (Tahiru, 2021). In another study, Olatunde-Aiyedun (2024) examines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into science curricula at Nigerian universities. The study was titled “Artificial Intelligence (Ai) in Education: Integration of Ai into Science Education Curriculum in Nigerian Universities”. The impact of AI integration on learning outcomes, student engagement, and overall educational quality in science education was studied using a mixed method approach. The study made use of quantitative analysis focuses on academic records, assessing the performance metrics of 180 science education students enrolled in AI-integrated courses across three Nigerian universities. It made use of Qualitative data to gathered perspectives on AI integration in science education from three experienced lecturers through semi-structured

interviews. While the results demonstrate a tangible link between AI integration and science education, offering a nuanced understanding of advantages and disadvantages, it could be ascertain that an adaptive curriculum that equips students with AI-related skills, contributing valuable insights for educational stakeholders on effective AI integration into science curricula. Ultimately, the study aims to foster the development of future experts capable of leveraging AI for scientific innovation in Nigeria's evolving technological landscape.