Background of the Study
Language diversity is a critical factor in education, particularly in multilingual societies such as Nigeria, where students speak different indigenous languages alongside English, the official language of instruction. In Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State, secondary school students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, making effective teaching and learning challenging for both educators and learners (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2023). Many students struggle with comprehension when lessons are delivered in English, leading to difficulties in knowledge acquisition and academic performance.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology in education, offering solutions that enhance personalized learning experiences. AI-based language translation tools have been developed to bridge communication gaps by enabling real-time translation of instructional materials into multiple languages (Okonkwo & Ibrahim, 2024). Such tools can support multilingual education by allowing students to access learning resources in their native languages, thereby improving comprehension and retention. Additionally, AI-powered translation can assist teachers in delivering lessons more effectively to linguistically diverse classrooms (Olawale & Musa, 2023).
Despite the increasing integration of technology in education, secondary schools in Ilorin South lack effective language translation tools that can facilitate multilingual learning. Many existing translation applications, such as Google Translate, are not specifically designed for academic contexts and often produce inaccurate translations that distort the meaning of instructional content (Adebayo & Salisu, 2023). Furthermore, there is limited research on the development and implementation of AI-based translation systems tailored for secondary school education in Nigeria.
Given these challenges, there is a need to develop an AI-powered language translation tool specifically designed to enhance multilingual learning in secondary schools in Ilorin South. This system will support students by providing accurate, contextually relevant translations of instructional materials, fostering better understanding and academic engagement. By leveraging natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms, the proposed tool will ensure efficient and precise translation of educational content into local languages, bridging the linguistic gap in secondary education.
Statement of the Problem
The inability of many secondary school students in Ilorin South to fully comprehend lessons delivered in English has resulted in poor academic performance and low engagement in learning activities. Language barriers hinder effective communication between teachers and students, especially in subjects that require deep conceptual understanding, such as science and mathematics (Adebayo & Salisu, 2024). Many students find it difficult to grasp key concepts because they are unfamiliar with the academic vocabulary used in English-language instruction.
Although existing language translation applications offer some level of linguistic support, they are not tailored for educational purposes and often lack contextual accuracy. Generic translation tools fail to consider the specific terminologies and syntax used in academic settings, leading to misinterpretations and misinformation (Okonkwo & Musa, 2024). Additionally, most secondary schools in Ilorin South lack digital infrastructure to support effective multilingual learning through technology-driven solutions.
Furthermore, teachers struggle with adapting lesson plans for students who require additional language support. In the absence of an AI-based translation tool that can facilitate real-time multilingual learning, educators are forced to rely on code-switching or peer translations, which are inconsistent and time-consuming. There is, therefore, an urgent need for a specialized AI-driven language translation tool that will bridge the language gap and improve learning outcomes for secondary school students in Ilorin South.
Objectives of the Study
To develop an AI-based language translation tool tailored for multilingual learning in secondary schools in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara State.
To evaluate the impact of the AI translation tool on student comprehension, academic performance, and engagement in multilingual classrooms.
To assess the usability and accuracy of the developed system in translating educational content into indigenous languages.
Research Questions
What are the major language barriers affecting student learning in secondary schools in Ilorin South?
How can an AI-based language translation tool enhance multilingual learning and improve student academic performance?
What is the accuracy and usability level of the developed AI translation tool in facilitating secondary school education?
Research Hypotheses
The implementation of an AI-based language translation tool will significantly improve student comprehension and engagement in multilingual classrooms.
There is a positive relationship between AI-driven translation and improved academic performance among secondary school students.
The developed AI translation system will provide accurate and contextually relevant translations for educational content.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the linguistic challenges faced by students in multilingual secondary schools. By developing an AI-based language translation tool, the research contributes to improving comprehension, knowledge retention, and overall academic performance. The system will help bridge communication gaps between teachers and students, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder learning. Additionally, the study promotes the use of AI in education, aligning with global trends in digital learning and inclusive education. The findings will be beneficial to policymakers, educators, and researchers interested in advancing technology-driven language learning solutions.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the development and implementation of an AI-based language translation tool for secondary schools in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara State. The research will focus on evaluating the impact of the tool on student comprehension, engagement, and academic performance. The system will be designed to support major indigenous languages spoken in the study area. The study will not extend to primary schools, tertiary institutions, or other local government areas outside Ilorin South.
Definitions of Terms
Artificial Intelligence (AI): The simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks such as language translation, data analysis, and decision-making.
Multilingual Learning: An educational approach that accommodates students who speak multiple languages by providing learning materials in their preferred languages.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): A branch of AI that enables computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language.
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