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Automated essay grading (AEG), powered by artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming educational assessment globally by offering efficient, scalable alternatives to traditional grading. In Nigeria, where large student populations and limited teaching resources strain educational systems, AI-driven solutions hold significant potential. This article explores the integration of AI for AEG in Nigeria, focusing on its technological foundations, current applications in EduTech, and the challenges of implementation, drawing from recent scholarship and practical examples.
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Technological Foundations of AI in Essay Grading
AI-based AEG relies on natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to evaluate written responses. A 2025 study in the Proceedings of the 2024 8th International Conference on Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence demonstrates that large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 achieve a Quadratic Weighted Kappa score of 0.68, indicating substantial agreement with human graders. In Nigeria, such technologies could address the high student-to-teacher ratio (often exceeding 50:1 in public schools) by automating repetitive grading tasks. Platforms like Google’s BERT, adapted for educational contexts, further enhance AEG by analyzing syntax, coherence, and content relevance, offering a robust foundation for Nigerian EduTech adoption.
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Current Applications in Nigerian EduTech
Nigerian EduTech firms are beginning to experiment with AI for assessment. For instance, uLesson, a prominent e-learning platform, has integrated AI tools to provide feedback on student exercises, though full AEG deployment remains nascent. A 2023 Punch Newspapers report highlights how Gradely uses AI to personalize learning, with potential expansion into essay grading for secondary students. These efforts align with global trends, such as the Intelligent Essay Assessor, which grades essays and provides feedback, as noted by Landauer. In practice, a Lagos-based pilot by Tuteria in 2024 used AI to grade English essays, reducing teacher workload by 30% and enabling faster feedback, illustrating AEG’s practical benefits in Nigeria’s urban classrooms.
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Challenges of Implementation
Despite its promise, AEG faces significant hurdles in Nigeria. Infrastructure deficits, such as unreliable electricity and limited internet access (only 55% penetration in 2025) restrict scalability, particularly in rural areas. A 2023 International Journal of Educational Technology article warns of biases in AI algorithms trained on non-local datasets, potentially misjudging Nigerian English variants. Moreover, ethical concerns, including data privacy and teacher resistance, persist. Social media discussions on X in early 2025 reveal educators’ fears of job displacement, underscoring the need for training and policy frameworks to ensure equitable integration.
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Conclusion
AI-driven automated essay grading offers Nigeria a pathway to enhance educational efficiency and equity. While technological advancements and early EduTech applications signal progress, infrastructural and ethical challenges demand critical attention. Collaborative efforts between policymakers, educators, and tech developers are essential to harness AEG’s full potential in Nigeria’s evolving educational landscape.
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This article was first published on 20th March 2025
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preciousgift-nwaeze

Preciousgift is an exceptionally gifted Nigerian writer with a robust theological background and an unwavering passion for gospel music. Alongside crafting uplifting gospel content, he demonstrates expertise in writing about education, communication, and technology, showcasing his remarkable versatility across various subjects.

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