Investigating English Language Teachers’ Readiness and Needs Regarding AI Integration through the UNESCO AI Framework
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37376/sjuob.v39i1.7853Keywords:
, UNESCO AI Competency Framework, English language teaching, AI integration,Abstract
Artificial intelligence has recently become the focus of considerable academic discussion worldwide. While AI has been associated with several benefits, its rapid widespread use poses challenges and threatens the teacher’s role. Particularly in developing contexts like Libya, adopting AI in education requires a careful, systematic approach to promote its proper use. Accordingly, this study examined English language teachers’ readiness and needs for AI integration at the University of Benghazi. The investigation was guided by the UNESCO Competency Framework for Teachers (2024) and used interviews with six teachers. The results revealed that the teachers have a strong human-centered approach to AI use, basic familiarity with AI ethics, and basic knowledge and use of AI tools in the teaching process and their professional development. Nonetheless, the teachers were constrained by limited professional development opportunities and the resources needed. The findings of the study highlight a promising foundation for AI implementation, but stress the need for policy interventions in light of the UNESCO framework.
Downloads
References
Baker RS. Artificial intelligence in education: Bringing it all together. In:
OECD, editor. OECD Digital Education Outlook: Pushing the Frontiers with
Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and Robots. Paris: OECD Publishing; 2021. p.43-54. doi:10.1787/f54ea644-en
UNESCO. AI and education: Guidance for policy-makers. Paris: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization; 2021. doi:10.54675/PCSP7350
Alhalangy AGI, AbdAlgane M. Exploring the impact of AI on the EFL context: A case study of Saudi universities. J Intercult Commun. 2023;23(2):41-49. doi:10.36923/jicc.v23i2.125
Alshumaimeri Y, Alshememry A. The extent of AI applications in EFL learning and teaching. IEEE Trans Learn Technol. 2024;17:653-63. doi:10.1109/TLT.2023.3322128
Amin MYM. AI and Chat GPT in language teaching: Enhancing EFL classroom support and transforming assessment techniques. Int J High Edu Pedagogies. 2023;4(4):1-15.
Kalra R. Exploring teachers’ perceptions toward the integration of AI tools in the language classroom. NIDA J Lang Commun. 2024; 29(45):21-36.
Kim R. Effects of learner uptake following automatic corrective recast from artificial intelligence chatbots on the learning of English caused-motion construction. Lang Learn Technol. 2024;28(2):109-133. doi:10.64152/10125/73574
Songsiengchai S, Sereerat B, Watananimitgul W. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI): Chat GPT for effective English language learning among Thai students. Eng Lang Teach. 2023;16(11):1-68.
Kovalenko I, Baranivska N. Integrating artificial intelligence in English language teaching: Exploring the potential and challenges of AI tools in enhancing language learning outcomes and personalized education. EUR Soci-Legal Humanit Stud. 2024;(1):86-95.
Suharno S, Musthafa B, Purnawarman P. Exploring perceptions and experiences: Integrating AI in English language teaching from the perspectives of learners and educators. J Pendidik Progresif. 2025;15(1):499-515. doi: 10.23960/jpp.v15i1.pp499-515
Woo DJ, Susanto H, Yeung CH, Guo K, Fung AKY. Exploring AI-generated text in student writing: How does AI help? Lang Learn Technol. 2024; 28(2):183-208. Available from: https://hdl.handle.net/10125/73577
Chung JY, Jeong SH. Exploring the perceptions of Chinese pre-service teachers on the integration of generative AI in English language teaching: Benefits, challenges, and educational implications. Online J Commun Media Technol. 2024;14(4):e202457. doi:10.30935/ojcmt/15266
Estrellado C, Miranda J. Artificial intelligence in the Philippine educational context: Circumspection and future inquiries. Int J Sci Res Publ. 2023;13(5):16-22. doi:10.29322/IJSRP.13.04.2023.p13704
Filo Y, Rabin E, Mor Y. An artificial intelligence competency framework for teachers and students: Co-created with teachers. Eur J of Open Distance E-Learn. 2024;26(S1):93-106. doi:10.2478/eurodl-2024-0012
Almashrgy A, Alburki H. Teachers’ perceptions on the impact of artificial intelligence on English language learning in Libyan EFL classrooms. Malays J Ind Technol. 2024;8(4):28-44.
Baroud N, Alouzi K, Elfzzani Z, Ayad N, Albshkar H. Educators’ perspectives on using (AI) as a content creation tool in Libyan higher education: A case study of the University of Zawia. J Edu Res Innov Technol. 2024;1(2):61-70.
El Daibani A, Elfeitouri N. Investigating technology integration in English language teaching in Libya: A TPACK framework perspective. In: Omar Y, editor. Educational studies and issues in teaching and learning English as a foreign language at Libyan settings. Berlin: Democratic Arab Center for Strategic, Political & Economic Studies; 2025. p. 7-36
Abolkasim E, Hasan M. Integrating ChatGPT in education and learning: A case study on Libyan universities. Sebha Univ J Pure and Appl Sci. 2024;23(2):20-24. doi:10.51984/jopas.v23i2.3082
Alahwal E, Mansour L, Al-Ojali AJ, Lahwal F. Artificial intelligence in higher education in Libya: Opportunities and challenges. In: Sebha University Conference Proceedings. 2025 Mar; 4(1):45-50. doi:10.51984/SUCP.V4I1.3861
Shrif S, Jamoum M.The future of education in Libya: Weighing the pros and cons of AI integration. AlQalam J Med Appl Sci. 2025;8(2):1092-1099. doi:10.54361/ajmas.258286
UNESCO. AI competency framework for teachers Internet. Paris: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization; 2024. cited 2025 Dec 15. Available from: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000387156
Mishra P, Koehler MJ. Technological pedagogical content knowledge: A framework for teacher knowledge. Teachers College Record. 2006;108(6):1017-1054.
Zulfiani Z, Suwarna IP, El Islami RAZ, Sari IJ. Trends in SAMR research in teaching and learning from 2019 to 2024: A systematic review. IJAAS. 2025;12(4):99-106. doi:10.21833/ijaas.2025.04.012
Haroon A, Hussian N. Investigating AI governance in higher education: Policy recommendations for the University of Benghazi based on international best practices. In: Omar Y, editor. Educational studies and issues in teaching and learning English as a foreign language at Libyan settings. Democratic Arab Center for Strategic, Political & Economic Studies; 2025. P.37-71.
Creswell JW, Creswell JD. Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. 6th ed. Thousand Oaks (CA): SAGE Publications; 2023.
Mack N, Woodsong C, MacQueen KM, Guest G, Namey E. Qualitative research methods: a data collector's field guide. Research Triangle Park (NC): Family Health International; 2005.
Cohen D, Crabtree B. Qualitative research guidelines project Internet. Princeton (NJ): Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; 2006 cited 2025 Nov 15. Available from: http://www.qualres.org/
Malterud K, Siersma VD, Guassora AD. Sample size in qualitative interview studies: guided by information power. Qual Health Res. 2016;26(13):1753-1760. doi:10.1177/1049732315617444.
Kocaman R. A practical guideline for addressing data trustworthiness in qualitative research. In: Qualitative research methods for dissertation research. Hershey (PA): IGI Global; 2025. p. 317-346.
Hadaga HM, Elfalfal AM. Libyan EFL teachers’ perceptions of AI integration in English teaching: A case study at Benghazi University. Sci J Univ Benghazi. 2025;38(2):10-22. doi:10.37376/sjuob.v38i2
Amal I. Teachers' perceptions of the challenges and impacts of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in English language teaching. RETAIN J Res Engl Lang Teach. 2025;13(3):31-42.
Sivanganam J, Md Yunus M, Mohd Said NE. Teachers’ perceptions in using artificial intelligence (AI) in ESL classrooms. Int J Acad Res Prog Edu Dev. 2025;14(1):1-15.
Allali S, El Ghouati A. EFL classroom: Teachers’ perceptions and intention to use ChatGPT for language teaching. J Appl Lang Cult Stud. 2025;8(1):189-209.
Nurjanah L, Cahyono BY, Suryati N. The successful use of AI for English teachers’ professional development. JALTCALL Trends. 2025;1(1):2169.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
License
Copyright (c) 2026 Nisreen Salah Elfeitouri , Aziza Abdelgader El Daibani

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.






