Exploring the impact of AI on teacher leadership: regressing or expanding?

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on teacher leadership, specifically examining whether AI is expanding or regressing teacher leadership, as perceived by teachers who were using AI in their teaching practices. Using a qualitative research design, the study employed semi-structured interviews to collect data from 13 teachers from five countries. The data were then analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study indicated that the use of AI has the potential to both expand and regress teacher leadership. AI can expand teacher leadership by providing tools for personalization, curriculum development, automating administrative tasks, and supporting professional development. However, AI was also viewed to be regressing teacher leadership, by narrowing the role because technology was taking over some of its aspects. Five sets of competencies were suggested by teachers for teacher leaders to sustain their roles in an AI era. The study concludes that the impact of AI on teacher leadership depends on how it is implemented and integrated into the education system. It highlights the importance of continued research and training in this area to inform future education policies and practices.