Intelligent tutoring systems

This chapter explores the application of Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) within the broader context of harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. ITS are designed to simulate personalized, one-on-one tutoring experiences, utilizing AI to adapt to individual learning needs, diagnose performance, provide feedback, and recommend interventions. By focusing on the advantages and challenges of ITS, the chapter highlights the potential of AI-driven educational technologies to improve learning outcomes, particularly in environments with limited access to human tutors. Special attention is given to the role of ITS in higher education, both within African universities and globally, illustrating their transformative potential in enhancing educational quality and accessibility. The literature review traces the evolution of ITS from early expert systems to contemporary AI-driven platforms, emphasizing key advancements such as the development of systems like AutoTutor and Cognitive Tutor. Case studies from both developed and developing countries demonstrate the practical effectiveness of ITS, offering examples of their successful deployment in mathematics, science, and programming education. The chapter also delves into the challenges associated with ITS implementation, particularly the high cost of development, infrastructure limitations, and the inability of systems to fully replicate the emotional and cognitive support provided by human tutors. Furthermore, concerns about data privacy, security, and equity are discussed, highlighting the need for responsible policy-making to ensure that ITS technologies are ethically integrated into educational systems. Despite these challenges, the future prospects for ITS are promising, with ongoing advancements in AI and related technologies offering new possibilities for personalized, scalable, and immersive learning experiences.

Keywords: Intelligent Tutoring Systems, AI in Education, Personalized Learning, AI-driven Educational Technologies, Educational Policy & Implementation.