The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Automating and Personalizing Lesson Planning for Teachers

Abstract

The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education is reshaping teaching and learning processes, particularly in the area of lesson planning. Lesson planning is a foundational responsibility for educators, encompassing curriculum alignment, instructional strategies, and consideration of diverse student needs. Traditionally, this process is time-intensive and demands careful professional judgment. AI technologies, however, offer innovative solutions by automating repetitive planning tasks, generating adaptive learning materials, and personalizing instruction based on student data. This study investigates the multifaceted role of AI in automating and personalizing lesson planning, employing a mixed-methods approach that combines surveys of 120 university teachers in Saudi Arabia and in-depth interviews with 15 participants. Findings indicate that AI enhances efficiency, supports differentiation, and provides teachers with tools for creative instructional design while raising concerns regarding ethical considerations, data privacy, and the necessity of professional oversight. Recommendations emphasize structured professional development, policy guidelines for ethical AI use, and hybrid models blending AI support with human judgment. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on AI in education and highlights both opportunities and challenges in modernizing lesson planning practices.