Artificial Intelligence and the Evolution of Scientific Pedagogy: Rethinking Biological Sciences Teaching and Learning in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in biological sciences has emerged as a transformative approach to addressing pedagogical and infrastructural challenges in higher institutions. In Southwest Nigeria, where access to well-equipped laboratories and specialized educators remains limited, AI presents innovative solutions for enhancing teaching, learning, and research in biological sciences. This paper examines AI’s role as a catalyst for transformative learning, highlighting its applications in personalized instruction, virtual laboratories, intelligent tutoring systems, and automated assessment. While AI enhances scientific comprehension and research capacity, its adoption is hindered by digital literacy gaps, inadequate technological infrastructure, financial constraints, and ethical concerns. The study proposes policy recommendations, including curriculum enhancement, faculty training, investment in AI infrastructure, and public-private partnerships to ensure equitable AI adoption in biological sciences. The paper underscores the urgent need for strategic interventions to maximize AI’s potential, positioning biological sciences in Southwest
Nigeria for global competitiveness. By addressing these challenges, AI can serve as a revolutionary force in equipping students with advanced scientific competencies, fostering research innovation, and preparing the next generation of biological scientists and technologists.