Teachers in UAE turn to ChatGPT to cut workloads and boost efficiency

The rise of ChatGPT is well on its way to transforming the education landscape – but debate rages over whether it is a force for good or could serve as a method of cheating for pupils.

Concerns it could be misused by learners and stifle their critical thinking have been raised since the AI-powered large language model launched three years ago.

But, according to a new study, in the UAE it is not just pupils who may be using generative AI to create content – teachers are also turning to it for a helping hand.

Based on surveying more than 300 teachers in the Emirates, ChatGPT is regularly being used to create instructional materials and design lessons. Almost half of teachers said they used ChatGPT at least once a week, while less than a third said they had never used it.

Pros and cons of AI influence

Referencing previous research, the new study warned that although ChatGPT could help lesson planning, “its convenience raises questions regarding teachers’ autonomy and independent thinking”.

“There is a risk of over-reliance on technology, potentially leading to biased behaviour towards some students and issues such as plagiarism and non-compliance with standards,” the study said.

ChatGPT has grown in influence since its launch at the end of 2022. AFP

But the researchers also said there were benefits from using ChatGPT in schools, as it could mean that pupils receive personalised learning. “ChatGPT can develop student-centred lessons using specific action verbs that address students and adapt content and learning resources to each learner’s profile,” the study said.

The research found a difference in how teachers use ChatGPT according to where they worked, with public school teachers more likely to create instructional materials and look for help with classroom dialogue, while those at private schools were more likely to use it for lesson planning.

Published in Contemporary Educational Technology, the study, Navigating the game-changer: ChatGPT’s influence on in-service teachers’ self-regulation and teaching practices in the UAE, is written by researchers at Sharjah Education Academy, Al Ain University, UAE University and Emirates College for Advanced Education.

Of the teachers surveyed, 19 per cent said they used ChatGPT in their teaching daily, 30 per cent used it weekly, 20 per cent monthly and 31 per cent rarely. About 58 per cent had received training on its use.

Why are teachers turning to technology?

Clive Gibson, assistant principal for educational technology at Star International School, Mirdif, said that generative AI was “becoming an increasingly valuable tool for teachers across the UAE”.

“At Star International School, Mirdif, we use it to enhance teaching, not replace it,” he said. “AI supports lesson planning, content creation and instructional design, giving teachers more time to focus on inspiring and supporting their students. Tools such as ChatGPT can be useful, but they rely on strong prompts and, more importantly, the professional judgment of the teacher.”

He said that staff were being continually trained in how to use AI. To prevent safeguarding issues, he said that pupil's names or identifying information were not entered into generative AI systems and that only education-specific platforms, with enhanced data protection, were used.

“Human oversight is always essential,” he said. “AI is most effective when it works alongside skilled educators. When used responsibly, it enhances creativity, reduces workload and helps us prepare students with the skills they need for the future.”

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