Aidoni Maria (Phd Candidate)

Thesis title: The Contribution of Artificial Intelligence Tools to meeting the educational needs of Primary Education. Readiness of Teachers to Adopt the new form of tools And issues of Legistation, Resourses and Training

Supervisor: Stamatis Dimosthenis

Advisory Committee Members:

Periklis Chatzimisios, Professor IHU
Goulianas Konstantinos, Associate Professor, IHU

Abstract:

My doctoral thesis focuses on the evolution of artificial intelligence in the field of education, which has dynamically enabled the development of advanced applications with the primary goal of personalizing support and guidance for students. Through data analysis and the use of algorithms, artificial intelligence proposes personalized educational materials and adapted teaching approaches.

This allows educators to provide more effective support, helping students develop their knowledge in a more personalized and efficient way. Additionally, artificial intelligence can predict potential needs or difficulties in students’ educational journey and suggest preventive or adaptive actions, contributing to improving the quality of education and reducing disparities in access to it.

In the context of examining the current state of affairs related to the doctoral thesis topic, it has been observed that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the field of education. Educational institutions have been compelled to embrace distance learning as a teaching method, leading educators and students to adjust to new technologies and teaching practices.In this transition, artificial intelligence emerges as a significant tool, offering personalized support and guidance to both educators and students.

To successfully achieve this transition, it requires adequate support, infrastructure, as well as continuous training and adaptation from educators. Moreover, integrating artificial intelligence into education demands the establishment of educational environments that can adapt to the changes brought about by digitization, along with the development of educators’ digital skills and ensuring necessary support and infrastructure.

The doctoral dissertation aims to investigate and analyze the current status of primary education in the region of Thessaloniki regarding the utilization of artificial intelligence applications and tools. It will also explore the challenges and difficulties encountered in both in-person and distance learning settings. Additionally, it will assess educators’ knowledge and proficiency in delivering digital teaching methods, with the goal of integrating artificial intelligence into their instructional practices. The research questions to be examined within the framework of the doctoral thesis are:
1. What artificial intelligence techniques are appropriate for primary education?
2. Is the integration of these techniques feasible within the Greek context and in distance learning?
3. Is the implementation of artificial intelligence tools in primary education feasible, taking into account educational policy?
4. What role does COVID-19 play in the adoption of alternative teaching methods, utilizing information and communication technologies, in primary education?
5. Are primary education teachers capable of effectively utilizing these technologies in alternative teaching methods? What are the current challenges, and how can their skills be enhanced?
Regarding the methodological framework that will be followed, here are some indicative points:
• First Year: This year will be dedicated to exploring and comparatively evaluating the literature and studies, as well as studying the curricula of primary education programs.
• Second Year: The second year includes selecting a research methodology and studying relevant literature. It involves creating a research tool and testing it, as well as studying and defining controls for comparing the results.
• Third Year: The third year will involve drafting the results, conclusions, and recommendations for future legislation and the adaptation of study program.