Doctoral Dissertation Examines Use of Artificial Intelligence Applications to Improve Learning Outcomes

As part of its ongoing efforts to support scientific research and enhance the quality of graduate studies, the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at the Main Center of the Islamic University of Minnesota organized, on Wednesday evening, June 24, 2026, a scientific defense of the doctoral dissertation submitted by researcher Turki Ahmed Al-Harbi from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, entitled "The Use of Artificial Intelligence Applications from Teachers’ Perspectives to Improve Learning Outcomes among Secondary School Students in Jeddah Governorate.” The dissertation was submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the PhD degree in the Department of Educational Technology at the College of Educational Sciences and was defended via Zoom.

The dissertation was examined by a specialized academic committee chaired by Dr. Badr Al-Shammari, Head of the Department of Educational Technology at the Islamic University of Minnesota. Dr. Anas Qasem Al-Shar'a served as the dissertation supervisor, while Dr. Adel Ali participated as the internal examiner and Dr. Majdoleen Hamdy Mahmoud as the external examiner.

The study addressed one of the most prominent contemporary educational and technological issues by examining the current use of artificial intelligence applications from teachers’ perspectives and exploring their role in improving learning outcomes among secondary school students in Jeddah Governorate. It also examined the potential benefits of smart technologies in developing educational practices, enhancing the quality of the educational process, and achieving more effective learning outcomes.

The defense featured an in-depth academic discussion covering various scientific and methodological aspects of the dissertation. The committee members provided a number of scholarly observations and recommendations aimed at enhancing the study’s academic value and enriching its findings. The researcher also engaged with the committee on several issues related to the research topic and the potential application of its findings in the field of educational technology and modern learning environments.

This dissertation defense reflects the Islamic University of Minnesota’s commitment to encouraging research and studies that keep pace with the rapid transformations taking place in education and technological development. It also contributes to building rigorous academic knowledge that supports the advancement of educational practices and prepares researchers capable of developing innovative solutions to contemporary educational challenges.