Artificial Intelligence Integration and the Rising Trend of Educational Decay in Nigerian Secondary Schools: Implications for Teaching and Learning Quality

Abstract

The introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in global education has brought about new opportunities in promoting teaching-learning, and administrative effectiveness. In Nigeria, however, AI integration is occurring within an already poor secondary education system caused by certain factors such as shortage of teachers, poor infrastructure, not meeting up to the learning outcomes etc. Therefore, this study aims to examines AI integration in relation with the rising trend of educational decay in Nigerian secondary schools using a conceptual and literature-based approach and assess its implications for teaching and learning quality. The study further explores AI as a transformative instrument that personalizes learning, support lesson delivery, helps in improving assessment, and as well as a potential catalyst of decay when misused or implemented without adequate safeguards. The paper points out that, over-reliance on AI, poor digital infrastructure, poor teacher capacity, widening technological inequality, and weak regulatory frameworks contribute to educational decay, reduced teacher-student interaction. The paper further argues educational decay cannot be address through AI alone but must be embedded within broader reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, teacher development, equity, governance, and ethical regulation. The study concludes with recommendations that education stakeholders should take proactive measures in AI integration that strengthens teaching and learning quality while mitigating its risks.