ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A PARTNER OF THE TEACHER: TRANSFORMATION OF THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS IN THE DIGITAL ERA

Abstract

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed the educational process, introducing new opportunities for teaching, learning, and assessment. This study explores the role of AI as a partner to the teacher and its impact on the transformation of education in the digital era. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, combining a systematic literature review with empirical data collected through a survey and semi-structured interviews. The study involved lecturers and students from Trakia University, Plovdiv University, and Sofia University. The results indicate a high level of AI adoption, particularly among students, who use AI tools more frequently for academic purposes. Lecturers primarily use AI for lesson preparation, content creation, and assessment, while students rely on AI for homework, research, and idea generation. The findings highlight key benefits of AI, including improved efficiency, time-saving, personalized learning, and increased student engagement. At the same time, the study identifies important challenges, such as lack of training, ethical concerns, data privacy issues, and overreliance on technology. Moderate levels of trust in AI tools and differences in verification practices between lecturers and students were also observed. The study concludes that artificial intelligence should be viewed not as a replacement for teachers, but as a complementary partner that enhances their role and supports more effective and innovative educational practices. Successful integration of AI requires the development of digital competencies, ethical frameworks, and critical thinking skills.