Let's Talk About EdTech! A Topic Modelling Analysis of AI Tools and Pre-Service Teachers' Perspectives

Abstract

This study examines pre-service teachers' understanding of technology integration and the role of AI tools in shaping this perspective. Open-ended responses, analysed using topic modelling, reveal the main themes in pre-service teachers' views and compare them with topics generated by AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Bing AI. Key themes in pre-service teachers' responses include improving learning quality, adapting to technology, and integrating it into education. ChatGPT highlights effective learning, student support, and educational quality, while Gemini emphasises accessibility, innovative methods, and AI-supported learning. Bing AI focuses on practical materials, digital experiences, and technological compatibility. Coherence scores show moderate alignment, with ChatGPT achieving the highest scores, followed by Bing AI and Gemini. These findings shed light on pre-service teachers' perceptions of technology integration and how AI tools can influence these views, offering insights for shaping future educational policies and practices.