The Impact of AI Requires Integration Across K-12 and Tertiary Learning

Abstract

This chapter explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in South African K-12 education and its influence on literacy, especially as students progress to higher education. It addresses the varying levels of school development in South Africa and the challenges teachers face, including infrastructure issues and differing attitudes towards AI. Using Rogers' diffusion of innovations model, teachers are categorised into five groups, from innovators to laggards, to assess their openness to AI in education. The study emphasises the crucial role of early adopters in successfully implementing AI technologies. It suggests that by supporting innovators and early adopters, significant improvements in literacy levels in schools could be achieved, potentially elevating literacy in higher education. The chapter discusses AI's potential to transform traditional educational models and its role in literacy enhancement within South Africa's K-12 sector.