AI Generative in Brazil’s Public Schools: The Teachers’ Perspective

Artificial Intelligence (AI) alters the societal landscape and transforms people's lives. In the realm of education, AI offers many opportunities and challenges in teaching and learning. While AI holds promise in enriching learning experiences and fostering motivation, its successful integration into educational practice necessitates that both students and teachers possess digital competence. Education plays a critical role in preparing future workforces. In South America, Brazil stands as the most populous country, with 212.6 million people. The utilisation of AI generative tools, such as ChatGPT, for teaching purposes in the country, is on the rise, albeit constrained within the educational context. Challenges faced in integrating AI generative tools in Brazil’s education system include the facilitation of plagiarism and teachers’ insufficient digital competence. In an effort to delve into the intricacies of teachers’ experiences and challenges regarding the integration of AI generative tools into their pedagogical practice, a qualitative study was conducted, and nine teachers in an upper secondary school in Brazil answered a questionnaire involving seven open questions. The teachers perceive the integration of AI generative tools into teaching practice as an instrument that enhances opportunities for improving the quality of teaching, stimulating student interest, and enriching the dynamism of the content learning process. Teachers have highlighted ChatGPT as a valuable tool for research and consultation. This tool can simplify teaching tasks and is typically well-received by students. Both teachers and students can utilise this tool to generate materials such as lyrics and textual variations and even produce fully composed songs ready for listening. ChatGPT is also used to prepare and correct assessments, ensuring consistency in evaluation. Teachers use AI to prepare texts, quizzes, and multiple-choice tests. AI-generated images are also used to enhance illustrations, making learning materials more engaging and visually appealing. Although AI simplifies complex subjects and makes the learning process more engaging, it is essential to provide adequate training on AI tools to enhance student involvement and educational results.