Tirivashe Mafuhure
University of South Africa

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AI Adoption in Southern African Open and Distance e-Learning: A Systematic Review Tirivashe Mafuhure; Mampilo Phahlane; Charles Mbohwa
Journal of Information System and Informatics Vol 8 No 2 (2026): April
Publisher : Asosiasi Doktor Sistem Informasi Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.63158/journalisi.v8i2.1111

Abstract

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) systems is now a very important aspect in higher and tertiary education worldwide and this also includes Southern Africa. This paper reviewed a total number of 79 peer reviewed studies and other relevant publications from the year 2019 to 2025, examining how AI was being employed to improve teaching, research, learning, and administration processes in ODeL institutions in the Southern Africa region. This research study explored how AI was used address challenges that are peculiar to the Southern African region by looking on aspects to do with high student to instructor ratio, resource constraints, lack of proper expertise, and limited digital infrastructure. Findings from the research study reveal that although AI can offer solutions such as Personalised learning, automation of administrative processes, enhanced learner engagement, and automated assessments, its implementation in most ODeL institutions is hindered by lack of proper infrastructure, lack of expertise, and policy gaps. The review highlighted the need for regional collaboration among Higher Education ODeL institutions, investment in ICT infrastructure, and comprehensive policy development for successful implementation of AI. Findings obtained can assist major stakeholders that include Higher education leaders, policymakers, researchers and students on the potential of AI to transform Open and Distance electronic Learning in Southern Africa.
AI-Based Assignment Marking in African Open and Distance e-Learning Institutions: A Systematic Review Tirivashe Mafuhure
Journal of Information System and Informatics Vol 8 No 2 (2026): April
Publisher : Asosiasi Doktor Sistem Informasi Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.63158/journalisi.v8i2.1530

Abstract

The rapid growth of student enrolment in African Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) institutions has intensified pressure on assessment systems, particularly in assignment marking, moderation, and feedback provision. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a promising solution for improving the scalability, consistency, and timeliness of assessment processes. However, evidence on the implementation, effectiveness, and governance of AI-assisted assessment in African ODeL institutions remains fragmented. This study synthesised literature published between 2019 and 2025 to evaluate the extent to which African ODeL institutions have utilised AI techniques in assignment marking. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic search of major academic databases identified 18 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The review examined AI techniques used, assessment types, evaluation methods, and reported challenges. Findings show that Machine Learning (ML), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and generative AI are the most frequently applied techniques, mainly in text-based assessments such as essays and short-answer responses. Although studies report gains in grading efficiency, consistency, and feedback generation, adoption remains constrained by infrastructural limitations, fairness concerns, linguistic diversity, weak governance frameworks, and limited empirical validation. Sustainable implementation requires standardised human-AI workflows, robust evaluation frameworks, and clear ethical and regulatory guidelines.