Dr Bodisere Juliet Teibowei
Abstract
The study explored the perceived efficacy of artificial intelligence (AI) in facilitating effective guidance and counselling services in tertiary institutions in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was employed, focusing on four key objectives which include: assessing availability of functional counselling tools and equipment in counselling units, counsellors’ application of AI in guidance and counselling, the perceived efficacy of AI in facilitating effective guidance and counselling services, and challenges in application of AI in guidance and counselling services. The study targeted professional guidance counsellors from ten tertiary institutions in Bayelsa State, with a sample of 100 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled, “Artificial Intelligence and Effective Guidance and Counselling Programmes Questionnaire” developed by the researcher and validated by experts. Reliability coefficient of 0.88 was established via Cronbach Alpha. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions. The findings indicated a general non-availability of functional counselling tools and equipment, few counsellors apply AI in counselling, AI is effective in promoting guidance and counselling services, counsellors face challenges like insufficient resources, amongst others. Recommendations include integration of AI education into counselling education programme.