AI to the rescue: Exploring the potential of ChatGPT as a teacher ally for workload relief and burnout prevention

Abstract

This research investigates the effectiveness of AI generative ChatGPT as a teacher assistant to reduce workload and prevent burnout in secondary schools. Lesson planning and content development were significant contributors to teacher burnout. In response, ChatGPT was tested with tailored queries for English, science, and math subjects, utilising an explanatory research approach to assess ChatGPT’s capabilities in personalised planning and content development, given that there is limited available information around this topic. The study highlights ChatGPT’s benefits in personalised planning through task-specific prompts and AI-human collaboration. Aligned with UAE’s AI integration objectives, the study emphasises balanced use and educational reform potential. Integrating AI tools optimises teacher planning, enhances instructional support, and refines resource allocation, contributing to AI’s academic potential while stressing burnout mitigation’s importance for educational advancement.