Adoption of Chatbots in Higher Education: Global Insights and Recommendations for Iran

Advancements in Artificial Intelligence have led to the rise of chatbots as transformative tools in higher education, enhancing teaching and learning through interactive environments. The adoption of large language models, like GPT-4, has significantly expanded their use globally. This paper examines chatbot applications in universities worldwide, focusing on their benefits and challenges, and provides recommendations for integrating this technology into Iran’s education system. To this end, we analyze fundamental AI mechanisms and examine their role in shaping chatbot performance. Case studies from universities across regions including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa highlight the global impact of chatbots in academic advising, personalized learning, research support, and administrative automation. Finally, by analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of chatbot applications in universities worldwide, the paper offers specific recommendations for Iranian universities to adopt this technology in educational processes, alongside considerations for addressing concerns related to data privacy, academic integrity, and equitable access.