Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Inclusive Education in Nigeria to Enhance Educational Opportunities for Diverse Learners
*1Nathaniel Samuel, 2Olutoye Kunle Olasedidun, 3Adekemi Yewande Karimu, 4Rashidat Sade Ganiyu, 5Ibrahim Olatunde Salawu & 6Olayemi Olusegun Olalude
*1,2,4,5&6Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Specialised and Professional Education, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria Email: nathanielsamuel09@yahoo.com*1; olutoyeolasedidun@gmail.com2; ganiyu.sade@gmail.com4; tundesalawu2003@gmail.com5 & olaludeolayemi@gmail.com6
3Leeds Trinity University, Faculty of Business, Computing and Digital Industries, School of Computer Science, United Kingdom: Email: 2317444@leedstrinity.ac.uk
Abstract
This paper x-rayed the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in promoting inclusive education within the Nigerian context. As Nigeria is faced with persistent perennial challenges in providing accessible and equitable education for all learners especially those with special challenges and those with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds; there is need to encourage leveraging AI as potent strategy to bridge educational disparities. The study adopts a multidimensional perspective in focusing on three central pillars: the integration of assistive technologies, the advancement of personalized learning pathways, and the fostering of accessibility innovations. These components are discussed in relation to contextual variables such as teacher digital competence, infrastructural readiness, policy environment, and socioeconomic disparities that influence adoption and effectiveness of AI tools in Nigerian classrooms. Supported by the construct of inclusive pedagogy, a conceptual framework was proposed to illustrate how AI enhance learners’ participation, autonomy and achievement. By contextualizing global innovations within Nigeria's unique socio-cultural and infrastructural realities, practical and policy-relevant insights are proffered on how AI can be harnessed to supplement existing educational practices and to fundamentally reshape them toward greater equity and inclusion. It was suggested that stakeholders should collaborate on inclusive and relevant AI solutions.
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence, Inclusive Education, Assistive Technologies, Personalized Learning, Accessibility Innovations
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