Exploring The Influence of Artificial Intelligence Tools on Creative Lesson Planning Among Preschool Teachers in Selangor

Abstract

This study investigates the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in enhancing teachers’ creativity in lesson planning within early childhood education (ECE) settings in Selangor, Malaysia. While AI applications such as ChatGPT, Canva AI, and lesson plan generators are increasingly used in global education, limited research has explored their impact on teacher practices in Malaysian preschools. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten preschool teachers representing diverse teaching experiences and institutional settings. The findings reveal that AI tools support teachers by saving time, generating fresh ideas, and enabling differentiated instruction for mixed-ability learners. However, challenges include concerns about age appropriateness, curriculum alignment, cultural relevance, and potential over-reliance on technology. Despite these challenges, teachers emphasized maintaining professional autonomy, viewing AI as a supportive assistant rather than a replacement for creativity. The study concludes that AI holds promise in reducing workload and inspiring innovative lesson activities, but its effectiveness depends on teachers’ ability to review, adapt, and contextualize AI-generated content. The results provide practical implications for teacher training, curriculum design, and policy development, while also highlighting the need for further research on inclusive AI tools tailored to the Malaysian preschool context.