The Exploration of Artificial Intelligence Tools and Their Applications in Higher Education Institutions for Information Professionals in Tanzania

Matendo Didas & Shuubi Alphonce Mutajwaa
Center for Information and Communication Technology
St. John’s University of Tanzania
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8672-0807
Email: matendodidas@gmail.com

Abstract: The main objective of this paper is to assess the possible uses of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and applications for information professionals employed by Tanzania’s higher education institutions (HEIs), particularly in the areas of end-user services and information technology where AI tools and applications may be employed. To find out what they thought about the use and adoption of AI techniques by information professionals of HEIs in Tanzanian, ten information officers were surveyed using a qualitative method. The results’ descriptive tabulation demonstrates that information professionals are knowledgeable about AI tools and applications. Information professionals use Natural Language Processing (NLP)-based applications like Google Assistant, Voice Search, and Google Translate. Pattern recognition methods, such as text data mining, are also used for online searching and information retrieval. OneDrive, Google Drive, cloud computing, and other services can all provide access to Big Data (BD). The population has very little knowledge of chatbots and robotics. The study guides how to use AI technologies and tools for information professionals who have not yet embraced or deployed them or wish to employ more advanced solutions. To establish AI laboratories for information professionals and information science in general, Tanzanian HEIs should collaborate with departments, computing units, and subject matter specialists. Lack of funding and technological know-how is one the biggest challenges facing information professionals in HEIs when implementing AI technologies and solutions.