Times have changed, and so have classrooms, which are no longer just about chalkboards and textbooks. Today, many students carry learning tools in their pockets, thanks to technology and the growing influence of AI. While some argue that AI could have negative effects on young people, experts also highlight its potential to enhance teaching and learning. 

According to UNICEF, around 39 percent of students aged 5–24, including many secondary school learners, have internet access at home, a figure that is transforming education across the country. With smartphone ownership on the rise and nearly half the population online, students can now access lessons, research materials, and revision resources far beyond the traditional classroom walls.

Students can use gadgets to access online lessons, educational videos, and study tools. Teachers are also exploring digital approaches to support learning, with some leveraging AI tools to plan lessons, assess understanding, and provide feedback more efficiently. This development does not make traditional instruction obsolete; rather, gadgets and smart technology are increasingly becoming part of how education is delivered and experienced.

Gadgets and AI in Nigerian classrooms

Smartphones and tablets have evolved beyond communication tools, they are now active learning devices. Students use them to access educational apps, review past questions, watch tutorials, and collaborate on assignments. Market studies show that even in towns outside major cities, young people are using mobile devices for academic purposes, especially in preparation for national exams.

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Artificial intelligence is also making inroads in education. AI-powered tools can personalise learning by analysing individual strengths and weaknesses, then recommending exercises that target specific gaps. Education technology specialist Dr Chika Okoro of Lagos explains, “AI does not replace the teacher but supports students individually, especially in crowded classrooms where one teacher must handle many learners.” These tools also help educators by reducing time spent on repetitive tasks like grading and tracking student progress.

Opportunities and challenges ahead

Despite the promise of technology, challenges persist. Reliable electricity and consistent internet access remain problematic for many schools, particularly outside major urban areas. Not every student owns a laptop or tablet, making smartphones the most common, but imperfect device for digital learning.

Dr Okoro emphasises the importance of collaboration: “Technology must be paired with infrastructure and training. If devices are available but teachers are not equipped to use them, or if connectivity is weak, the benefits will not reach all students.” Without investment in power, internet access, and teacher training, digital tools risk widening the gap between students who have access and those who do not.

Even so, the adoption of gadgets and AI continues to expand. As more schools integrate technology and students grow comfortable using devices for learning, education could be more flexible and interactive. Gadgets are not replacing teachers, but they are giving students and educators new ways to access information, tackle challenges, and prepare for a future that demands both knowledge and adaptability.

Cynthia Nwanonyiri