The Potential Impact of Chatbots on Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes

The Potential Impact of Chatbots on Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes

Oluwabunmi D. Bakare, Omeiza Victor Jatto
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-0205-7.ch012
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Abstract

Emerging technologies such as Chatbots are redefining communication, engagement, and outcomes in the digital space in contemporary times. Academic institutions are now left behind as the majority of students who are Gen Z feel comfortable in this space, thus leaving the institutions of higher learning with no choice but to embrace these technologies to improve students' engagement and lead to a better learning outcome. However, despite its myriads of potentials, there are also consequences. It is based on this premise that this chapter will examine the usage of chatbots on students' engagement and learning outcomes by taking into perspective its potentials and consequences. Vygostsky's sociocultural theory and the Ranganathan law of library science will underpin this chapter. The chapter is expected to contribute to practice, society, policy, and theory based on the conceptual model that would be developed.
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Chatbots

A chatbot is an AI-powered computer software or app that can mimic human interaction and carry on conversations with users in a conversational, textual style. Its major function is to carry on natural, conversational exchanges with users, during which it provides information, responds to questions, and offers assistance with a variety of tasks. Users can interact with chatbots in the same way they would with a real person by incorporating them into messaging platforms, websites, mobile apps, and other digital interfaces.

About Chatbots

Use of Natural Language Processing (NLP): In order to comprehend and react to user input, chatbots use cutting-edge NLP methods. The chatbot can now understand subtleties in human language such as phrasing, slang, context, and intent thanks to NLP.

User Interaction: Chatbots communicate with users in real time, carrying on natural dialogues in response to user messages and questions. They take the information provided to them and employ preprogrammed conversational patterns, algorithms, and AI models to come up with a suitable response.

Types of Chatbots

Rule-Based Chatbots: These chatbots follow a predefined set of rules and patterns to determine their responses. They are typically more limited in their capabilities and are suitable for handling simple tasks and queries.

AI-Powered Chatbots: These chatbots leverage machine learning and AI techniques, often incorporating large language models like GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), to generate more dynamic and contextually relevant responses. They can learn and adapt over time, improving their conversation quality based on user interactions and feedback.

Used For:

Customer Support: Chatbots are commonly used for providing customer support by addressing frequently asked questions, troubleshooting issues, and guiding users through processes.

E-commerce: They can assist users in finding products, making purchase decisions, and completing transactions.

Information Retrieval: Chatbots can retrieve specific information from databases, websites, or knowledge bases.

Appointment Booking: Chatbots can help users schedule appointments, set reminders, and manage their calendars.

Language Learning: They can provide language practice and lessons, engaging users in interactive language exercises.

Entertainment: Chatbots can offer entertainment through jokes, riddles, storytelling, and interactive games.

Integration and Platforms: It is possible to incorporate chatbots into a variety of platforms, such as websites, social networking platforms, messaging applications (such as Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Slack), mobile apps, and voice assistants (such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant).

Key Terms in this Chapter

Chatbots: A software application or web interface that mimics human conversation through text or voice interactions.

Synthesized Classroom Engagement Model (SCEM): A model that explains the place of librarians as lecturers in using Artificial intelligence like chatbots in classroom engagement.

Classroom: A virtual setting where students and lecturers, librarians for knowledge transmission.

Instructor: The librarian and the lecturer who via their understanding of the students instruct the chatbots on what to do. The instructor whose voice the chatbot is built or programmed to mimic or represent.

Prospects: possibility and likelihood of chatbots enhancing classroom engagement.

Student Engagement: the degree of interest, attention, and participation that students demonstrate in their educational experiences.

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