Artificial Intelligence for Enhancing Language Teaching and Learning in Nigerian Colleges of Education: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This study systematically reviewed the literature on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for enhancing language teaching and learning in Nigerian Colleges of Education. The study was motivated by the growing adoption of generative AI, intelligent chatbots, adaptive learning systems, automated feedback, and other AI-powered technologies in contemporary language education, alongside concerns about their pedagogical, ethical, technological, and institutional implications. The study specifically aimed to examine the major applications of AI in language teaching and learning, identify its pedagogical and learning benefits, investigate challenges associated with its integration, and determine its implications for language teacher education in Nigerian Colleges of Education. A qualitative systematic review design was adopted using desk research. Relevant peer-reviewed and scholarly literature was purposively selected based on its relevance to AI, language education, teacher preparation, and educational technology. The selected literature was critically examined and synthesised through thematic analysis, with recurring patterns organised according to the study objectives. Findings revealed that AI supports personalised learning, language practice, content generation, grammar and vocabulary development, writing and speaking activities, immediate feedback, learner autonomy, motivation, and teacher lesson preparation. However, significant challenges include inaccurate AI-generated information, academic dishonesty, privacy concerns, excessive learner dependence, inadequate AI literacy, limited infrastructure, unequal access, and insufficient institutional policies. The review concludes that AI can significantly enhance language education when integrated as a pedagogical support rather than a replacement for teachers. Nigerian Colleges of Education should therefore strengthen AI literacy, teacher training, ethical awareness, digital infrastructure, and institutional policies to promote responsible and sustainable AI integration in language education.

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