SWOT ANALYSIS OF CHATBOTS IN THE INDIAN CONTEXT: PERCEPTIONS OF TEACHER EDUCATORS

The aim of this research paper was to undertake a detailed SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of Chatbots which are an advanced language model from the point of view of teacher educators in India. Chatbots have contracted a lot of interest pertaining to its potential usefulness in all the sectors including field of education as well. However, its use and integration in teacher education requires a thorough analysis of the perception of its major stakeholders regarding its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The purpose of this study is to gain insights into perception of teacher educators' on Chatbots and its probable significance for teacher education in India. A qualitative research methodology such as interviews and questionnaires were used. Strengths of chatbots included amplified data availability, personalised learning experiences, time savings, and interactive and engaging learning. Teacher educators were concerned that Chatbots lack contextual responsiveness, ethical considerations, and overreliance on technology. Chatbots may be used for personalised professional development, language barriers, and inclusive education. Resistance to change, privacy and data security, and technology and accessible infrastructure were some of the threats. Chatbots' strengths and opportunities highlighted its prospects in improving teaching and learning experiences in teacher education. With proper implementation strategies, challenges and concerns may be resolved. It is imperative to analyse the approaches to integrate chatbots in teacher education by addressing issues, and capitalising the opportunities for successful Chatbot application in teacher education.