INTEGRATING AI AND EDTECH SOLUTIONS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: FACULTY EXPERIENCES AT NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This research study investigates the landscape of educational technology (EdTech) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools usage among faculty at Nazarbayev University. The primary objectives are to assess the current utilization of EdTech tools, explore faculty experiences and familiarity with AI technologies in education, and understand the perceived benefits and challenges associated with integrating these technologies into their teaching practices. Furthermore, the study aims to identify key factors that influence faculty decisions to adopt or reject these technological innovations and to determine the types of support needed for their effective integration into educational contexts. This study employs a predominantly quantitative approach, analyzing survey data to provide a comprehensive overview of how EdTech and AI tools are utilized in higher education. The analysis is supplemented by qualitative insights derived from an open-ended question, which serves to enrich the narrative and support the quantitative findings. Ultimately, this thesis offers recommendations for administrators and policy makers to enhance the support structures in the universities, thereby fostering a more robust integration of EdTech and AI tools in higher education teaching. The insights gained from this study not only contribute to academic discourse but also serve as a practical guide for enhancing educational practices through technology.