INFLUENCE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON THE TEACHING PROCESS

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on teaching practices in Albania, focusing on teachers’ perceptions of its opportunities and risks. While AI is rapidly gaining visibility worldwide, its application in the Albanian education system remains unclear, raising concerns that technology may weaken the essential human interaction that gives meaning to education.
The study was conducted at the Aleksandar Moisheš University in Durres, Albania, by distributing questionnaires to 126 postgraduate students and alumni between October and December 2024. The responses were analyzed using SPSS 25 software to ensure professional statistical interpretation.
The results revealed that while teachers recognize AI as a global trend, its direct use in classrooms is still limited. Many respondents expressed concerns that AI may diminish the indispensable role of human interaction in education. Teachers provide guidance, emotional support, and motivation that technology cannot replicate. Therefore, AI should be integrated as a complementary tool, not a substitute. It is important to note that no significant differences were found between urban and rural schools, as both environments are characterized by similar levels of application and uncertainty.
Albania has only recently started to embrace AI, introducing academic and research programs aimed at training specialists. However, progress is hampered by limited human and financial resources. Sustainable development requires greater investment in education, infrastructure and vocational training. Overall, AI in Albania is still in its early stages of development, but its potential in education and other sectors is widely recognized.
Regarding digital skills, around half of the participants reported having sufficient technological knowledge, especially in the 36-45 age group. Another 33% had only basic skills, and many acknowledged the need to improve their professional qualifications to adapt to modern requirements. Teachers often use technology in the educational process, but only a minority apply AI tools. While almost all respondents had heard about AI through social media, television or colleagues, 59% admitted to using AI tools very little or not at all in their work. In contrast, 18% indicated that they use them frequently or regularly, mainly because students also use them.
When it comes to risks, 38% of teachers believed that they would always accompany this technology, while a third perceived them as low or non-existent. Despite concerns, 60% believed that AI would have a significant impact on education in the coming years, with 75% highlighting its potential to improve teaching and administrative processes. In addition, 71% saw the benefits of AI in helping vulnerable students, and 51% believed that it could help identify learning difficulties. Teachers also highlighted its potential to create modern teaching texts, facilitate research and make learning more interactive.
However, educators clearly expressed concerns about negative impacts. Almost half feared that AI could diminish the role of the teacher, 79% agreed that it could hinder the development of students’ critical thinking. The same number of teachers associated AI with an increased risk of plagiarism, and 46% feared that it could reinforce inequality or discrimination. Other risks mentioned included weakening communication skills, over-reliance on ready-made information, disinformation, and the loss of social connections.
Positive aspects included saving time, automating tasks, reducing bias, supporting research, and promoting student autonomy. Many emphasized the value of AI in developing analytical and organizational skills, as well as its benefits in specialized training, seminars, and distance learning. Importantly, 84% of respondents agreed that the future of young people will inevitably be related to AI.
In summary, the study revealed both enthusiasm and skepticism about AI in Albanian education. Teachers recognize its potential to increase efficiency, provide personalized support, and foster innovation, but also emphasize the indispensable importance of human interaction, mentorship, and critical thinking. To successfully integrate AI, Albania needs to invest in training, infrastructure, and ethical frameworks, ensuring that technology complements, rather than replaces, the human aspects of education.