INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUPPORTING PERSONALIZED LEARNING

Abstract

This study explores the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support personalized learning in classroom environments, as well as their integration into project-based learning activities implemented within STEM interest clubs in the context of the Bulgarian school system. The research aims to examine the attitudes of teachers and students toward AI-supported personalized learning and to evaluate its potential impact on students’ motivation and academic achievement. A quasi-experimental research design with pre-test and post-test measures was implemented between 2023 and 2025. Data were collected from 129 teachers, 86 students, and 42 parents through structured questionnaires, DigCompEdu-based self-assessment instruments, and classroom observations. The findings reveal an improvement in student achievement, increasing from 70% to 83% following the implementation of AI-supported personalized learning activities. Furthermore, 95% of students reported positive attitudes toward learning with AI-based tools, while 67% of teachers perceived AI chatbots as useful instructional support instruments. Nevertheless, nearly half of the teachers expressed a need for additional professional development, and most parents reported concerns regarding the use of AI tools without the supervision of a teacher or mentor. The results suggest that AI technologies can significantly support personalized learning when combined with clearly structured, pedagogically grounded learning activities and appropriate teacher guidance. However, the study is limited by the absence of a control group and its focus on a single national educational context. Future research should therefore involve larger and more diverse samples in order to further validate these findings.