GRADUATE STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE APPLICATIONS IN ACHIEVING SPENDING EFFICIENCY IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

The study aimed to explore the perceptions of graduate students in education disciplines regarding the role of artificial intelligence applications in enhancing spending efficiency in public schools in Saudi Arabia. The study employed qualitative methodology suitable for the study's objectives, and conducted individual interviews with 28 graduate students who work in education and are enrolled in one of the graduate programs at a Saudi public university. After analyzing and categorizing the information, the study results found that participants have very positive perceptions toward the role of artificial intelligence in achieving many benefits for the education sector. The study also found that participants believe that artificial intelligence, through its multiple applications, can contribute to achieving spending efficiency in Saudi public schools by improving the educational system and raising its quality, where artificial intelligence applications contribute effectively to reducing school dropout rates, increasing school discipline, and considering individual differences among learners. The study results also indicate that participants believe that school facilities contribute significantly to raising the education bill in the country, and that introducing artificial intelligence applications would ultimately lead to achieving spending efficiency through rationalizing energy consumption and maintenance in school facilities. The study also provided a number of recommendations.