A Survey on the Acceptance and Challenges of AI-Driven Learning Platforms in Physics Education in Ekiti State

Abstract

This study examined the acceptance and challenges of integrating AI-driven learning platforms into physics education in Ekiti State, Nigeria. It aimed to determine the extent of acceptance among teachers and students, identify infrastructural and ethical barriers, and test for differences between the two groups. Using a descriptive survey design, the study selected a stratified random sample of 286 physics teachers and 1430 SSII students. The researchers collected data using the Acceptance and Challenges of Adoption of AI in Physics Education Questionnaire, a 25-item, 5-point Likert-scale instrument. Content validity was established through expert review, and reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha (α = 0.87), indicating strong internal consistency. The results showed moderate acceptance. Both teachers and students recognised the usefulness of AI platforms (3.2), but rated ease of use lower, with an x̄ of 2.9. Infrastructural challenges were severe and included inadequate ICT facilities (x̄ = 2.4), frequent power outages (x̄ = 3.4 – 3.5), poor internet connectivity (x̄ = 3.3–3.4), and limited access to digital devices (x̄ = 3.2). Ethical concerns also shaped perceptions, especially around data privacy (x̄ = 3.3), widening inequality between schools (x̄ = 3.4–3.5), and the need for clear policy frameworks (x̄ = 3.6). Independent-samples t-tests revealed no significant differences between teachers and students in acceptance (t = 0.72, p = 0.47), infrastructural challenges (t = -0.82, p = 0.41), or ethical concerns (t = -0.95, p = 0.34), indicating shared views across both groups. The study concludes that although AI platforms are perceived positively, adoption is limited by systemic barriers, including infrastructural deficits, low teacher readiness, and unresolved ethical issues. It recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, continuous professional development for teachers, clear policies on privacy and equity, curriculum alignment for AI integration, and pilot programs in diverse school settings before large-scale implementation.