Research Paper (original) (raw)

Educational Guide for Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Applications: A Descriptive and Analytical Study

This exploratory research study aimed to identify the most prominent generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) software/applications that can be used in the educational system by teachers, educators, and learners as tools that can help enhance the processes of teaching and learning. It adopted a qualitative, descriptive, and analytical research approach as the scientific research methodology relied upon to achieve its objectives. The study used a data collection tool consisting of an analysis card composed of five main sections: defining the tool, its primary functions, its potential advantages, its potential disadvantages, and a summary (overview). The study included a purposive stratified sample of 120 GenAI applications that were carefully selected based on established scientific criteria, following a comprehensive review of the literature and a careful study of the recommendations and proposals of international educational scientific conferences, seminars, and workshops specializing in the field of educational/instructional technology. The study was implemented during the academic year 2023/2024 amidst the widespread dissemination of GenAI applications in all aspects of life, including the education sector. The results of the study led to the preparation of a comprehensive educational guide/handbook that introduces the most prominent GenAI software/applications that can be used in the educational system. The smart applications in this guide were divided into five main categories: (1) Chatbot tools (9 applications) that allow for automated communication and interaction with users through text conversations. (2) Scientific research, writing, and document interaction tools (38 programs) that help researchers and writers accomplish their tasks efficiently, such as searching for information and data, writing content, and managing documents. (3) Media creation tools (46 tools) that enable users to create distinctive media content, such as images, videos, and audio and musical materials. (4) Design, presentation, and visual communication tools (14 applications) that help in designing presentations, creating designs and graphics, and improving visual communication. (5) Teaching and learning tools (13 software) that provide innovative solutions to enhance teaching and learning, such as interactive educational applications, assessment tools, electronic learning platforms, and tools to assist in taking notes, lesson planning, suggesting activities and resources, and creating attractive and effective materials and presentations. These categories represent a comprehensive classification of GenAI applications, making it easier for the reader to find the tools that suit their needs. The study concluded with some recommendations, the most important of which are: (1) Effectively disseminating the GenAI tools guide/manual to all stakeholders in the education sector. (2) Implementing intensive and diverse training programs to enhance the capabilities of those concerned with education in GenAI tools. (3) Producing comprehensive awareness materials about AI and GenAI software and disseminating them through multiple channels. (4) Developing a comprehensive interactive digital educational guide/handbook that addresses the principles, ethics, policies, and procedures related to AI and its uses in teaching and learning environments. (5) Including a course on AI in educational curricula and teacher training programs. (6) Enhancing coordination, cooperation, and partnership between educational institutions and AI specialists to raise awareness about this field and intensify guidance and support programs on the use of GenAI tools in the educational process.