Teacher Agency within the Paradigm Shift of Curricula in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Keywords:
Teacher Agency, Artificial Intelligence, Paradigm Shift, CurriculaAbstract
This study aimed to examine and model teacher agency in the age of artificial intelligence with emphasis on paradigmatic changes in curricula. This applied qualitative study adopted a multi-method strategy by integrating meta-synthesis and classic grounded theory. The research field included scientific articles published between 2020 and 2026 and national experts in curriculum planning. Purposive and snowball sampling were used, and theoretical saturation was achieved with 34 scholarly articles and 18 experts. Data were collected through systematic analysis of published scientific articles and in-depth semi-structured interviews. Trustworthiness was ensured through data triangulation, member checking, and continuous memoing. Data analysis was conducted using Uwe Flick’s interpretive-holistic strategy by integrating and synthesizing the findings obtained from meta-synthesis and grounded theory. The inferential findings indicated that teacher agency in the age of artificial intelligence can be explained through a three-dimensional temporal matrix consisting of retrospective, present-oriented, and prospective orientations. This agency was conceptualized across four curriculum levels: personalized curriculum, digital curriculum, transformative curriculum, and adaptive curriculum. The final model showed that the teacher’s role shifts from a traditional regulator and content implementer to a learning data analyst, designer of learning pathways, architect of intelligent learning ecosystems, and ethical supervisor of human–AI interaction. The findings suggest that the future of education is not based on the elimination of teachers, but on the profound redefinition of their professional agency in interaction with artificial intelligence, educational data, and intelligent curricula. Therefore, empowering teachers in AI literacy, technology ethics, data interpretation, and intelligent curriculum design is essential for realizing future-oriented education.
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