Artificial intelligence and e-learning in African library schools: expectations of library and information science educators

Abstract

The study aimed at highlighting the expectations of library and information science educators towards integration of artificial intelligence in e-learning processes in library schools in African countries. The narrative content analysis was adopted with extensive literature review. The concept of AI, artificial intelligence in library and information centres, rationalization for e-learning in library schools were well articulated in the paper. Factors affecting the incorporation of artificial intelligence to e-learning in library schools unwillingness by library educators to embrace changes, poor power supply, unavailability of digital infrastructures, and lack of digital knowledge. Expectations of Library and Information Science educators in library schools in AI era include the following: acquisition of new digital skills, complying with AI ethics in education, partnership for positive change, formulate a viable policy guideline, developing AI literacy, change in teaching practice, investment in digital infrastructure and its accountability and possession of smart devices. In line with the discoveries, improvement and development of infrastructural facility, formulation of sound AI policies, partnership with stakeholders, recruitment of smart librarians and digital literacy were recommended. The paper have exposed the need for library science educators and librarians in library schools to be repositioned for undeniable changes in the landscape of librarianship, teaching and learning with reference to AI tools and applications. The findings can be used by library administrators in making ICT related and e-learning policy that would guide the process of integrating AI tools to e-learning in African library schools. The study though using a theoretical approach has not been carried out before, thus it is a contribution to the frontiers of knowledge in this novel area. It also opens the frontiers for further empirical evidences from the developing countries.