A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION-SOUTH AFRICA

This systematic review explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education within the context of South Africa. As technology continues to advance, AI has garnered significant attention for its potential to transform various sectors, including education. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of AI implementation in higher education institutions across South Africa. Drawing upon established guidelines for systematic literature reviews, the study identifies and analyses relevant literature on AI in higher education, focusing specifically on South Africa. Four key research questions guide the review process, delving into the extent of AI adoption, its impact on teaching and learning outcomes, the challenges and opportunities associated with its implementation, and recommendations for future initiatives in this domain. The review employs a structured approach, involving the systematic selection, identification, and synthesis of literature from reputable databases and sources. Keywords and search strings tailored to the South African context are utilized to ensure the inclusivity of relevant studies. Following rigorous screening processes based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a final set of articles is selected for in-depth analysis. Findings from the review shed light on the current landscape of AI integration in higher education institutions in South Africa. Key themes emerge regarding the adoption of AI technologies, including the utilization of AI-driven tools for personalized learning experiences, the enhancement of administrative processes, and the augmentation of teaching methodologies. Additionally, the review highlights challenges such as resource constraints, ethical considerations, and the digital divide, alongside recommendations for addressing these issues and maximizing the benefits of AI in higher education within the South African context.