TRADITIONAL DRAMA TECHNIQUES AND AI TECHNOLOGIES IN ARABIC LANGUAGE CLASSROOMS: EVIDENCE FROM UMARU SANDA AHMADU COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, MINNA, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study was motivated by the persistent challenges facing Arabic language instruction in many Nigerian Colleges of Education, particularly the use of conventional teacher-centered methods, inadequate instructional facilities, low student engagement, and limited integration of modern educational technologies. The study therefore investigated the integration of traditional drama techniques and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in Arabic language classrooms at Umaru Sanda Ahmadu College of Education with the aim of examining their effects on students’ Arabic language achievement, classroom engagement, digital literacy, cultural understanding, and self-regulated learning. A quantitative quasi-experimental research design was adopted involving students from the Department of Arabic Language, where drama-based instructional strategies such as role play, storytelling, dialogue performance, and simulations were combined with AI-supported language learning tools including ChatGPT, Duolingo, and ArabicPod101 during classroom instruction. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, and structured questionnaires to evaluate students’ performance and learning experiences. The findings revealed a significant improvement in students’ post-test scores, demonstrating enhanced speaking, listening, vocabulary acquisition, communication skills, motivation, classroom participation, digital literacy, cultural understanding, and independent learning abilities. The study concluded that the integration of traditional drama techniques with AI technologies creates a more interactive, collaborative, and student-centred environment for teaching and learning Arabic language in Nigerian Colleges of Education. The study therefore recommended the provision of adequate digital learning facilities, continuous teacher training on AI-supported instructional methods, curriculum review to incorporate innovative teaching strategies, and institutional support for the effective integration of drama and AI technologies into Arabic language classrooms.