Abstract
The study investigated the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools by e-tutors for online education in Distance Learning Center (DLC, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Quantitative research method supported by survey research design was adopted. The population of the study was 321 and the sample size was 175 with 170 (97%) response rate. Questionnaire was the instrument of data collection administered online to the e-tutors. Stratified sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study. The data collected was analyzed using simple descriptive statistical tools according to variables, frequencies and percentages as well as mean, variance and standard deviation with presentation of the data using tables and charts. The findings revealed that, e-tutors had a good confidence level of skills in utilization of AI tools, but there was individual differences on their ability to effectively use these technologies. The study also discovered that, the major barrier to effective utilization of AI tools by the e-tutors was lack of a comprehensive policy framework that governs integration of AI technologies in educational settings in Nigeria. It was recommended, the Federal Ministry of Education of Nigeria should develop a clear policy framework for the use of AI tools in education in order to improve online instructional efficiency.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, AI tools, online education, e-tutors, distance learning
Publication Date: 2025-08-03