Harnessing Artificial Intelligence’s Potential in Rural Education Research: An Application of ChatGPT-4

Abstract

This exploratory study delved into the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance rural education research. Specifically, it sought to operationalise the research agenda outlined by the National Rural Education Association of the United States of America and involve scholar-practitioners in conducting research that could influence policy and practice in rural education. The study explored the opportunities of AI applications, specifically the ChatGPT-4, in generating initial study ideas for the Policy and Funding support theme within the National Rural Education Association Research Agenda – 2022-2027. The focus was on meeting the needs of racially and linguistically diverse students in rural educational settings. The ChatGPT-4 successfully generated five relevant research problems/study topics, nine research questions, and identified three possible theoretical frameworks. Four limitations were identified: (1) inaccuracy of the leading scholars, (2) the lack of contextual understanding, (3) the lack of domain expertise, and (4) a potential over-reliance on automated assistance. The results of this study highlighted the potential of ChatGPT-4 as an effective tool for researchers in the early stages of their projects. It was found that the ChatGPT-4 efficiently provided relevant research topics, questions, and theoretical frameworks. As such, it may provide several advantages in the initial research process including accuracy in generating research problems, saving time, reducing cognitive workload, and enhancing idea generation. Since the tool expedited idea generation, it may free up researchers to concentrate on other aspects of research such as critical thinking and analysis. However, the limitations included inaccuracies in identifying leading scholars, the lack of contextual understanding, insufficient domain expertise, and the risk of excessive dependence on automation. This suggests that caution should be used when utilising AI to support research as human expertise in content, context, and methodology is vital for conducting thorough research.