Title: Impact of Artificial Intelligence-Driven Instruction on Critical Thinking, Civic Competence, and Academic Achievement of Junior Secondary School Students in Social Studies in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Obafemi Esther Oluwaseun
Yusuf Adam Oyetunji
Salami Jamiu Olamilekan
Salami Temitope Odunayo
Volume: 10
Issue: 5
Pages: 1-8
Publication Date: 2026/05/28
Abstract:
This study investigated the impact of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven instruction on critical thinking, civic competence, and academic achievement of junior secondary school students in social studies in South-West Nigeria. The increasing integration of AI in education has created opportunities to enhance teaching and learning processes, particularly in developing higher-order cognitive and social skills. The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design involving 100 students, comprising 50 in the control group and 50 in the treatment group. Data were collected using standardized tests on critical thinking, civic competence, and academic achievement. The treatment group was exposed to AI-driven instructional strategies, while the control group received traditional classroom instruction. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that students exposed to AI-driven instruction demonstrated significantly higher improvement in critical thinking skills compared to the control group. Similarly, the treatment group showed greater enhancement in civic competence, indicating that AI effectively promotes civic awareness and participation skills. Furthermore, the results indicated that AI-driven instruction significantly improved academic achievement, with the treatment group outperforming the control group.,The study concluded that AI-driven instruction is an effective pedagogical approach for improving learning outcomes in Social Studies. It enhances students' cognitive, social, and academic development when properly implemented. Based on the findings, the study recommends the integration of AI tools into the school curriculum, provision of adequate technological infrastructure, and training of teachers to effectively utilize AI in instruction. Additionally, educators should ensure that AI is used to complement traditional teaching methods and promote active student engagement.